160 ITU‐T's Technical Reports and Specifications Table 2 – Technologies and Categories of SSC ICT Network Facilities Data Layer Data/Content Center Communication Layer Transport Networks Access Networks ICT Facilities Network Management Software ICT Integrated Services Capacity Data Management Cloud Computing and Data Platform Geographic Information Infrastructure Augmented Reality Terminals, Sensing & Multi‐device layer Terminals & Gateways Sensors Internet of Things Source: ITU‐T FG‐SSC, 201414 FG‐SSC WG 2 defines two different aspects related with the strategic planning required for the national deployment of ICT infrastructure. The first one is the deployment of ICT infrastructure itself, including the formulation and implementation of related policies and strategies. It requires the involvement of all the stakeholders identified before. The second aspect refers to improving the infrastructure deployed in order to reduce defects like perception (e.g., the infrastructure is not able to automatically perceive themselves running), cleverness (e.g., the operation and application of facilities use a fixed configuration and it is unable to judge the situation automatically), lack of sharing mechanisms(e.g., lack of horizontal integration that prevents synergies) and communication restrictions (e.g., the bandwidth and reach of various branded communication facilities are uneven). Decision makers must consider that during the implementation of ICT infrastructure there is the risk of creating a polarization effect in zones that have more investment than others, creating (or accentuating existing) digital divides in the city. Strategies aimed at addressing these risks can include the use of public funds to invest in zones with the least development infrastructure. Municipalities can adopt different strategies for the development of ICT infrastructure. These include the provision of supply incentives, using existing infrastructure for the deployment of ICT, or the adoption of strategies to incentivize demand (e.g., using ICT to improve local service management, or to improve the relationship with citizens). It must be noted that supply and demand stimulate each other. An adequate supply will often push the demand, while the growth of demand can increase and improve the supply, fostering a virtuous circle. With that in mind, local governments should focus on both strategies. All ICT infrastructure implementation must fulfil the applicable laws and regulations. In cases of municipal infrastructure and deployment of projects, financing strategies tend to be very heterogeneous. ____________________ 14 Ibid.