Smart cities - spaces that are networked

Smart cities are networks of public spaces that are interconnected. These networks are visited by users for a variety of purposes. And we dwell for different reasons.

Often spaces are designed for specific purposes in mind. Uses evolve over time. The context and reasons why we use spaces often extends space for multipurpose use. For example, a transport hub may also a local launch point for leisure or other community activities.

Shared use of space requires space operators to partner and collaborate with the wider community. ​Real-time discovery of ultralocal moments - how people and crowds use and flow across city networks - catalyses design for more seamless service interconnections.

Mobility – spaces that move

the A mobility space is a vehicle that moves users, such as public transit systems. These transport systems move us for different reasons. For example, we use trains to take us to work or school, but at other times we use them to transport us to meet friends and family for a day out at someplace new.

If we are travelling based on a schedule we are sensitive to disruptions of unplanned events, though we might have a higher tolerance to delays if it's a trip we're making for leisure - assuming we don't have a scheduled activity at our final destination. 

Either way, it's more about personalising for the ultralocal moments, than for individuals, that makes experiences more meaningful. 

Mobility space operators that better forecast and respond to disruption and convenience levels will ensure greater user satisfaction.

Public events – spaces that evolve 

Public events spaces often have multipurpose uses; like a park that’s an festival space or an exhibition centre. Be it for an exhibition or music festival running for a day or week, they require temporary layouts of points-of-interest and can be best characterised as ephemeral smart cities.

User value is heightened towards convenience and the need to access real-time information and connected services. The ability for services to interconnect seamlessly, flexibly and rapidly are key to maximising user experiences.

To keep pace with technological change and user service expectations, space operators need not only the agility to create bespoke moments of user discovery but also tools to help them to understand and adapt to change as they occur.