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All applications are recorded in real time and This case demonstrates the use of smart
the blockchain ensures that no one can make technology to contribute to the areas of smart
changes to the applications or the allocation governance and smart economy. As input,
decisions. Previously, the applications could only the intervention makes use of blockchain to
be viewed by government agencies; however, the make decisions pertaining to the allocation of
data from the blockchain can be now accessed sites transparent. The necessity to maintain a
by anyone who wants to check the records. permanent record, and the requirement of the
(The software can be downloaded and installed system to share the writing access, have been
on any computer.) The decisions are accessible justified by the processing of digital assets.
to anyone who can use the technology to see The transformation that is facilitated includes
them, leaving applicants in no doubt about the automating the comparison of applications
results and the fairness of the process. using smart contracts and providing the
The new system has reduced suspicion and applicants with transparent information about
mistrust in the departments that organize the allocation of sites. This case also included a
the fairs. Fair participants have commented new approach to developing the system using a
positively on the new system. Even those who specially assembled team.
initially considered blockchain complicated, The outcomes of the intervention include the
have been able to understand the process new technology solution, as well as the benefits
and access the information. Hence, once of of increased trust and reduced conflict over the
the positive outcomes of the system has been allocation of trading sites. All this takes place in
to expose residents to new technologies. The a context in which there is a need for economic
result is a trustworthy system that has increased opportunity that coincides with a demand for
transparency and satisfaction. The system was food and other products. The intervention
developed by a special team assembled for is supported by the values of fairness and
the project. This team has developed skills and transparency.
collected evidence of the success of this project
for creating a good basis to implement blockchain The project has resulted in a team with the skills
technology to improve other city services. to develop blockchain solutions and has proved
that such systems can be useful. This opens up
the possibility of creating similar solutions for
other city challenges.
Lesson learned
• Is the solution appropriate for another context inside a smart, sustainable city?
• It is important to highlight regulations and ethical issues beyond the technology the social aspects.
• There is a certain level of trust between the users and the city. In this scenario, enhanced transpar-
ency could be afforded by blockchain technology to convince people that processes in government
are being applied fairly.
• Blockchain technology can be understood and used by city residents.
• The success of the project depends on being able to assemble a team of suitably skilled technical
staff.
46 U4SSC: Blockchain for smart sustainable cities