Fundamentals of smart cities’ economics

Aims of the course

The aim of the course is to introduce the smart city concept and different trends that are assuring a green future together with guidelines for smart city transformation. In this course, students will gain an understanding of digital transformation as a key driver of change in cities and communities. The course will also provide students with information about essential smart city elements, with special emphasis on smart mobility. The aim of the course is (1) to present different smart city initiatives as well as issues related to developing smart cities and communities; and (2) to learn how to analyze and compare existing smart city and community projects.

The course will provide students the opportunity to understand and critically evaluate, optimize and manage smart solutions for citizens and organizations in urban surroundings and other environments. The course will also provide the students with the opportunity to develop the skills of analyzing different approaches to smart city development as well as managing obstacles for it.

Course syllabus

Part 1: Digitalization and the society
Digitalization and digital transformation
The concept and the drivers of green future
Innovative business models’ concept

Part 2: The smart city concept
Elements of smart city
Underlying technologies and their adoption
Models of governance

Part 3: Smart City Economics
The aspect of improving the quality of life
Identifying market opportunities based on new technologies and Society 5.0
Understanding the operation of innovation ecosystem
Designing new business models for smart cities' and communities’ application

Part 4: Smart Cities, Smart People and Smart Governance
Understanding the interconnections between well-being of people, technologies and governance
Case Study: Cost-benefit analysis of different projects, related to different challenges in smart cities

Part 5: Smart city issues and initiatives
Obstacles for developing smart cities and communities
Privacy and security concerns
Intelligent Buildings, Smart Transportation and mobility
Financial constraints of smart cities’ development
Case studies of different implementation practices

Course director(s)