Introduction to the Special Issue on Citizen Centricity in Smart Cities

Abstract

City digital transformation is being performed across the globe and it is being supported by several initiatives and policy groups. Nevertheless, this transformation is mainly technology oriented. Although there have been several interesting and impactful outcomes, like solutions for enhancing municipal efficiency and local living, the results lag behind expectations. Real transformation should also change structures and address the whole range from social to technical aspects. People-centricity in this transformation is an emerging topic that is attracting attention and some initiatives have launched. People-centric transformation can be defined as a multi-stakeholder approach to digital transformation that realizes sustainability, inclusiveness, prosperity, and human rights for the benefit of all. The aim of this special issue is to better understand all aspects of citizen centricity and how it can change the orientation of city digital transformation process. The special issue highlights the main elements of people-centricity in cities: inclusiveness, openness, engagement and empowerment via securing citizen awareness, data privacy, service simplification and transparency, and technological availability and observability.