A city can be defined as smart when it displays positive performance in these three fields, and when it has been built based on a “smart” combination of elements (communications, infrastructure, economic development) and on purposeful and independent citizen activities (participation, education) that make sound management of the available resources through open governance.

Four main sources of value

It is sustainable: using digital technology to reduce costs and optimise resources, in a way that its current administration does not compromise the use of these by future generations.

It is inclusive and transparent: it has direct channels of communication with the public, operates with open information and allows the budgets invested in to be monitored.

It generates wealth: offering suitable infrastructure to generate high quality employment, innovation, competitiveness and business growth.

It is made for the public: using technology that improves the quality of people’s lives, giving quick access to more efficient public services.

Ecosystem of actors in the value chain of a Smart City