Big Data + Built Environment = Technology Experts & City Counterparts Working Together in Building and City Planning, Design, Construction, and Management. Yes, that’s the formula. And developing big data applications that collect data, analyze it and provide scenarios for cities is key. Recently we published a post about “That IT Guy” and this is where IT is key to the future of Smart Cities. Bridging the gap between building and city planning with the Chief IT Innovator (you have one, right?) to integrate the needs of both departments as well as engineering and architecture is essential to the development of your Smart City. Jenn McArthur’s article is insightful, extremely well written and worth a read and share.
The relationship between information and urban settings is the central focus of an entirely new field of research called Big Data and the Built Environment. Until recently, there was a knowledge gap between big data experts and their counterparts in building and city planning, design, and management. Computer scientists have expertise in cloud computing and can manage large data sets, but typically don’t understand the broader context of building performance. On the other hand, building management companies and utilities collect enormous data about their assets, but lack the expertise to develop analytics to inform operational decision-making. Architects and engineers could similarly use this data to design better buildings, drawing on the lessons learned from current building performance. Bridging this gap is essential for developing a Smart City.