Digital technology is at the heart of urban issues, helping to transform cities in all their dimensions (economic, social, human…).
In 2013, Syntec Numérique’s “Digital City” committee created a barometer to analyze the challenges of using digital technology to transform cities and local authorities.
Wednesday, June 25 from 3:00 to 3:30 p.m. – CP16
Syntec Numérique will be exclusively presenting the results of its 2014 barometer of digital usage in 27 municipalities with over 50,000 inhabitants and 11 communities/metropolises.
This new edition continues to measure the use of digital technology in towns and cities, and takes stock of the projects carried out through a study of three factors:
- projects planned, underway and completed in ten key areas
- motivating cities to invest in digital technology
- governance (resources allocated, management methods, decision-making, etc.).
Syntec Numérique’s partnership with Innovative City in 2014 placed digital technologies within the wider discussion on urban innovation. Connected infrastructure, public services and data management were emerging priorities for cities and technology providers.
Good event coverage gives readers context: the topic being addressed, the challenges facing participants and the kinds of professional connections the gathering encouraged. Where a programme has ended, a retrospective is more appropriate than wording that suggests ticket sales or applications remain open.
The retrospective text can explain why smart-city projects must serve identifiable public needs. Authorities should examine governance, privacy, accessibility and maintenance alongside technological demonstrations, rather than assume that connectivity delivers value by itself.
Events also help make emerging technologies understandable by connecting demonstrations to real users. The most useful questions concern the problem being solved, the resources required and the ability to operate a solution over time. This perspective gives an older announcement continuing educational relevance.
