The smart city competitiveness index (SMCI): Conceptualization, modelling, application – An evidence-based insight

Abstract

At the core of the discussion in this paper lies the recognition that information and communication technology (ICT) and ICT-enhanced tools, applications, as well as elements of built environment (BE), specific to and defining the smart city, have considerable potential to facilitate economic exchange in the geographically limited smart city space. In this way, they contribute to the enhancement of competitiveness and economic growth, thus also improving the efficiency of land use. Still, relatively little has been written about smart cities’ economic performance, especially not through the lens of competitiveness and land use policy. This paper addresses this issue by conceptualizing and modelling the connection between ICT-enhanced applications, services and infrastructure, built environment and smart city competitiveness. A model composite smart city competitiveness index (SMCI) is developed. It is then operationalized by drawing data on major Polish cities, i.e. Warsaw, Cracow, Poznan, Katowice, Lublin and other. The value added of this paper is threefold. First, it identifies a gap in research and navigates it. Second, it models the smart city competitiveness and operationalizes it by developing the SMCI. The latter, third, serves as a useful tool to support the planning and policymaking process geared toward as efficient as possible land use in the smart city context.