A smart city refers to a large metropolitan area, which makes use of various kinds of sensors and electronic means to collect data and information. Such information and data are then used in order to efficiently manage resources, services and assets efficiently; in turn, this information is also used to enhance the overall operations across the whole city. In fact, smarter cities are those which have well developed infrastructures that are highly advanced and provide users with better services and facilities. In addition, such metro cities also face severe problems when natural disasters strike. This is when a smart disaster management plan comes into place to ensure better functionality.
The smart city uses information and communication technologies to better serve its users. In fact, they also develop their very own software and dedicated systems. This way, they can create real-time systems and infrastructures that allow for the efficient management and execution of numerous activities. Citizen welfare is also considered to be one of the key components of any smart city. It thus plays a significant role in maintaining the economic growth and social welfare of the residents of the metro.
One of the most common ways in which such an area handles its citizens is through its mass communication technologies. These include its wide range of communication systems, which include its sub urban fiber network that links the entire metro through its extensive and high speed electronic grid. In addition, another major component of the smart urban environment is its mass tourism infrastructure which features several theme parks, zoos, aquariums and water parks for the enjoyment of its many residents. Besides, it also provides for the convenience of its residents as it has complete and uninterrupted public transportation all throughout the city.
Another way in which a smart city manages its people and resources is through its real-time intelligence analytics. These use data analysis techniques in order to assess the needs and wants of its people and then provide solutions in order to satisfy these. One of these techniques includes the usage of intelligence analytics to monitor the activities of each resident in the smart city. This is achieved through the installation of smart sensors that gather information on the activities of residents from a variety of locations within the city. The collected data is then analyzed in order to provide relevant information and recommendations on how to better manage the needs and demands of its residents.
As part of its smart buildings strategy, a smart city also takes full advantage of its vast outdoor spaces by making available for its citizens gated communities. These provide residents with a safe and protected environment where in they can relax and enjoy the beauty of nature at their own leisure. Furthermore, these gated communities are surrounded by high walls and secured gates which only allow authorized personnel to enter. As such, the maintenance of these properties is also taken care of by professionals who oversee its upkeep. However, in some areas of the city, particularly those which are under construction or rebuilding, these protected gated communities may not be possible due to security concerns.
Another way in which smart city projects aim to maintain a sustainable lifestyle is through its energy consumption management system. Through the installation of energy efficient appliances for residents, the smart city aims to reduce its overall energy consumption as well as greenhouse gas emissions. In addition to this, the installation of solar panels for heating and lighting is also done as a way of reducing air pollution and increasing the amount of electricity generated by the city’s electric company. In order to achieve these goals, the installation of smart meters is also carried out so that the amount of energy consumption can be monitored and adjusted on a weekly basis.
Another way in which smart cities are trying to conserve energy is through its transportation system. By improving its mass transit system, a smart city technology ensures that more residents can get around the area. Furthermore, another benefit of this type of transportation is that it enables citizens to save fuel consumption as well as their carbon footprint. More importantly, the emission levels emitted by vehicles are reduced as they run on non-polluting alternative fuels. This initiative has the support of many local environmental agencies and is being implemented all over the world.
Smart cities use advanced technologies to monitor their environments and their inhabitants. These techniques allow them to reduce their energy consumption and reduce their carbon footprints. The monitoring of sensors and communication networks can also provide residents with real-time information on temperature, precipitation and the availability of power in the area.
Deepak Wadhwani has over 20 years experience in software/wireless technologies. He has worked with Fortune 500 companies including Intuit, ESRI, Qualcomm, Sprint, Verizon, Vodafone, Nortel, Microsoft and Oracle in over 60 countries. Deepak has worked on Internet marketing projects in San Diego, Los Angeles, Orange Country, Denver, Nashville, Kansas City, New York, San Francisco and Huntsville. Deepak has been a founder of technology Startups for one of the first Cityguides, yellow pages online and web based enterprise solutions. He is an internet marketing and technology expert & co-founder for a San Diego Internet marketing company.