Cities Reach A Coming Of Age, Not A Midlife Crisis

For local governments, the hype around smart cities was deafening; the push to pilot was strong. Many cities were overwhelmed by both the potential opportunities and the very real challenges. In short, cities weren't ready to be smart. But times have changed. With more of the prerequisites in place, many cities find themselves better prepared. Cities have upgraded and consolidated their systems of record, enhanced their systems of engagement, and started to invest in systems of automation and systems of insight into data-driven decisions— and smarter government outcomes. Many, but not all, of the roadblocks have been cleared. To build smart cities, local government CIOs must invest in the basics, building a solid foundation with integrated and open systems of record, systems of engagement, systems of automation, and systems of insight. But to ensure success with their business technology mandate, CIOs must foster a system of enablement through collaboration and creative business models.