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The idea that creating technologically advanced cities is simply about adopting the latest technology is misguided. Effective urban development requires a more holistic approach that combines technology with external factors, non-technical changes, and expertise[1].
Data scientists working on urban projects need to expand their focus beyond databases and analytics. They must gain contextual knowledge that can be practically applied to urban challenges[1].
Joy Bonaguro, former chief data officer of San Francisco, emphasizes that the key barrier to effective data science in urban planning is asking good questions. When hiring data scientists, she looks for individuals who can use a range of techniques, not just machine learning specialists[1].
Kim Lucas, MONUM's Civic Research Director, is writing a book called "The Smart Enough City" that addresses these principles. The book argues that cities are not purely technological problems, and technology alone cannot solve many pressing urban challenges[1].
Instead of relying solely on technology, cities need to focus on asking the right questions, understanding residents' issues, and thinking creatively about solutions. While technology can aid these efforts, it cannot provide solutions on its own[1].
The article warns against the perspective that every urban problem can be solved with technology. This approach risks creating cities that are superficially smart but filled with inequity and injustice. Instead, urban planners and policymakers should consider what truly sustains a city, focusing on ground-level innovations rather than purely technological solutions[1].
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