Page 24 - Redefining smart city platforms: Setting the stage for Minimal Interoperability Mechanisms - A U4SSC deliverable on city platforms

consistently and have better statistics on the maturity and security of the digital landscape. Society
will benefit from a well-functioning, low-risk market that can be used for implementing selected
political priorities, e.g., green energy and circular economy. In addition, it promotes innovation,
transparency and investment so that core services can be provided cheaply and efficiently, while
new opportunities can be tested and exploited quickly. Control of individual systems and data
flows is kept at the appropriate level but is subject to normal rules and management principles.

How: Follow the recommendations described in the sections of this paper for the MIMs as a
minimum but sufficient level of interoperability when exchanging data. There are metadata models
and specific data models, as well as so-called data brokers that simplify the control of data exchange
between components, systems and organizations. Preparing a dynamic data exchange on relevant
conditions increases the likelihood that, for example, pilot projects will provide value in the short
and long term.

3.5 Keep an open mind when choosing technology

This involves the important step of choosing the relevant technologies for a specific smart and
sustainable city.

What: Specify requirements that focus on functionality, not on specific implementations. However,
it is obvious that functionality should be viewed broadly and includes a perspective that is longer
than the time of delivery, i.e., the total cost not only during the life of the system but also during the
life of your data, which is potentially very long. Make sure that contracts are reasonably balanced in
terms of controllability and flexibility. Pay particular attention to ownership and the right to (re-)use
data and algorithms (code) and to letting others build on the system. Formulate a digital strategy
that ensures that the various investments and systems are optimally combined, also in the long term.
Use relevant standards if they exist. Also consider, in particular, the technology neutral standards
that may, for example, be used to ensure the service life and robustness of all parts of the solution.

Why: It has been common to consider a system as a single investment related to, for example, a
particular grant or organizational unit. However, data often challenge established economic and
organizational logics because new and smarter ways of service provision and management emerge.
Limitations resulting from an investment in a particular technology are referred to as technology
liabilities and must be taken into consideration when investing.

How: Establish a management perspective on the expectations in relation to a system’s contribution
to the activities of the organization, in the short and long term. Through contracts, make sure that
you have the necessary rights to change suppliers. Make sure to have a technological architecture
that allows you to make changes.

14 Redefining smart city platforms: Setting the stage for Minimal Interoperability Mechanisms