Smart Urban Acupuncture: Looking beyond technology

Mora et al. (2019) highlights the strategic principle that drives the development of smart cities in Europe, to look beyond technology. Developing smart cities is about tackling complex socio-technical systems that mitigates or resolve urban challenges. This aim can not be attained solely by advancement of technology. To make use of technology, the better approach would be to implement small-scale projects that progressively improved the urban context instead of taking the mega-infrastructure or massive resource intensive projects. 

Especially as cities may have constrained budget, time and resources, cities like Helsinki, Amsterdam, Barcelona and Vienna, seek a creative way of action by involving the community. Small-scale smart city projects may become more dynamic, adaptive and flexible keeping up with the needs of the community. From the case study of the four European cities, this approach, also known as urban acupuncture, is oriented toward the capacity building of the city. 

There are two requirements for the progressive digital transformation to take place using this approach. First, to provide a holistic and long-term sustainability framework according to the context of the city, thus driving individuals and organisations toward the same goals. Second, to build an environment that encourages collaboration and active participation of the individuals and organisations in the city. An open, inclusive and engaging environment is crucial to invite collective action in growing the smart city. 

Reference:

Mora, L., Deakin, M., & Reid, A. (2019). Strategic principles for smart city development: A multiple case study analysis of European best practices. Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 142, 70-97.

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