the next Generation of “Smart City” When it comes to city governance, management, and planning for the future, the term “Smart City” is being used with growing frequency. But what does it mean? Fundamentally, it entails utilizing sensing technology and data analytics to monitor conditions and better manage assets and resources. Through connected infrastructure, data ranging from water supply to energy usage to parking availability is readily available to equip city leaders, businesses, residents, and visitors with the information required to make informed decisions. The primary objective is to improve residents’ quality of life and the quality of experience for visitors. The Smart City concept has evolved. In its first phase, it was driven by tech companies. In its second phase, local governments took the wheel.
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Plan Manchester 2021
Today, in its third phase, citizens are in the driver’s seat. Increasingly, cities are putting data into the hands of the end-users (citizens) to find creative solutions to some of the most challenging urban issues. As an innovative city, Manchester is poised to be a leader of that third phase and go a step beyond. By tapping into the knowledge of leaders in industry and education, and the ideas of residents and visitors, Manchester can employ emerging technology and grow to be a stronger, more economically competitive, socially connected, and environmentally responsible city.
