WHAT IMD SAYS ABOUT SMART CITIES INDEX

The SCI was designed as a tool for action. Since it is based on people’s perceptions (surveys), it is critically important that the answers collected are calibrated to the specific context of the cities studied.

For the 2021 Index and all prior editions, we relied on country-level Human Development Index (HDI) data provided by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Throughout the course of 2022, we explored the possibility of using city-level HDI data that could provide a more granular (and realistic) vision of the socio-economic environment of specific cities. We believe that time invested in furthering our methodological approach was incredibly well spent and are excited by the applicability of the results obtained.

OPINION

The ranking is based on surveys and statistical data.

It includes three dimensions: Structure, Technology and Smart Cities. The first two assess Health & Safety, Mobility, Activities, Opportunities (Work & School) and Governance. Within each of these five blocks, the indicators collected in relation to Technology try to assess aspects directly related to Smart Cities.

Although it does not compare these values between the different cities, it does provide it for each of them and the information is interesting.