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This article was originally published on Metropolis Magazine as “Cities Are Not Technology Problems: What Smart Cities Companies Get Wrong.”
Innovation and technology are often presented as inextricably linked ideas. Yet, when it comes to solving today’s urban problems, technology does not always represent the best way forward.
Innovation instead should come from a thorough understanding of the city’s functions and processes, including its municipal government and other local organizations. Technology can help, yes, but cannot be used as a panacea.