The Enabling Role of Data Analytics in Smart Cities

The growing number of Internet of Things devices deployed across all parts of the urban environment has the potential to change our understanding of how cities work. Developments in big data analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence are providing city managers and leaders with new tools and insights.

In an article for Smart Energy International, Eric Woods, research director with Navigant, illustrates the crucial role data analytics play in smart city development.

Big data offers benefits across many important areas of smart city strategies. Woods provides the examples of:

• Predictive analysis of traffic and transport patterns to reduce congestion
• City resources for public safety, social care, and other key services
• Energy efficiency programs that can be directed at the most vulnerable households
• Open data platforms to increase citizen engagement

“The value of smart city technology investment is ultimately realized through the use of data to improve decision-making and support real-time operational control,” wrote Woods.

“Cities need to establish a strategy for city data, build their analytics capacity, and work with partners, including energy companies, to establish a data commons that can benefit all.”