Innovative uses of ICT technologies in recent urban developments and urban planning

Abstract

This chapter analyses the influence of the new information and communication technologies (ICTs) in the emergence of the knowledge economy as a new way of productivity and economic growth for cities, and how the use of these new technologies is driving innovative uses in urban planning. The application of these new tools is taking part in two main directions. On the one hand, these technologies are being used in the development of new digital participatory processes, whereas on the other, technological devices produce a huge amount of data that can now be processed to achieve a new way to understand urban ecosystems and to know how to operate to improve the urban planning of cities, its energy efficiency and a more sustainable environment. Information and communication technologies (ICTs) have transformed the way we live, work, communicate and socialize with others. The aim of this chapter is to analyse the evolution and influence of these technologies, highlighting how this revolution is changing the economy, the society or the processes of production, as well as how the use of current technologies is leading to new approaches and tools for urban development and urban planning.