Creating smart cities with open data
Smart cities go beyond the use of digital technologies for better
resource utilisation and reduced emissions; they involve making
traditional networks and services of the urban environment, such as
transport or water supply, more efficient through digital solutions.
The goal is to improve operational efficiency, share more accurate
information with the public and provide better quality of government
service and citizen welfare.

Open data plays a crucial role into the transformation into a smart
city. It supports researchers and businesses in creating better
products and services and allows developers to build applications
using data such as real-time transport information or healthcare
initiatives. For example, the FixMyBerlin
[https://data.europa.eu/sites/default/files/use-cases/Use%20case%20-%20Fix%20my%20Berlin.pdf]
application presents the transition to a bicycle-friendly Berlin
through an understandable and comprehensible map. By using real-time
data, infrastructure developments are made visible within four
categories: concept, planning, under construction and finished. The
Happy Bike Index [https://fixmyberlin.de/zustand] shows areas where
cycling is safe and those that still pose dangers.

Another example of open data benefiting r smart cities is Trulia
[https://data.europa.eu/sites/default/files/use-cases/united_states_-_trulia.pdf],
which provides insights into neighbourhoods for people interested in
moving there. They source insights from locals to offer a deeper
understanding of what living in that neighbourhood looks like. Using
filters such as size, public transport connection and pet allowance,
users can access the information they need.

The European Commission has set up a Smart Cities Marketplace
[https://commission.europa.eu/eu-regional-and-urban-development/topics/cities-and-urban-development/city-initiatives/smart-cities_en]
to bring experts together and exchange ideas and experiences. Are you
actively involved in the area of smart cities? Read more here
[https://commission.europa.eu/eu-regional-and-urban-development/topics/cities-and-urban-development/city-initiatives/smart-cities_en]
and join the Smart Cities Marketplace.

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Publication Date/Time
2023-07-28T08:00:00+00:00
Learn how open data facilitates digital solutions to improve
management and efficiency of the urban environment