Planners navigating platform urbanism

Abstract

<p>This research reflects on the role of an urban planner in an increasingly connected, data-driven urban context. The rise of urban-focused digital platforms has positioned </p> <p>municipalities as key customers for profit-driven organizations selling data and analytical tools to enhance quality of life in cities. This research focuses on ten urban-focused platforms and assesses their market positioning (promised value) and real-life application (actualized value), uncovering benefits and challenges associated with their use. The analysis explores how platforms can influence planning decisions, and a planner’s role in</p> <p>influencing the use of platforms. Findings suggest that planners have a critical role to play in determining each platform’s ability to provide real value within each city’s unique context. Recommendations highlight considerations for planners, specifically: the limits of platform data, potential trade-offs, and alignment with current state operations. An acute understanding of these dynamics will support planners in navigating platform urbanism while upholding the public interest.</p> <p><br></p> <p>Key words: Platform Urbanism; civic technology; urban planning innovation.</p>

Strava Metro Data

“…This includes traditional built infrastructure, such as the location and capacity of sewers, water, electricity and mobility infrastructure, as well as digital infrastructure, including information about resident movement, service usage, and access to information. As digital infrastructure has evolved, we have seen an expansion of urban digital technology platforms that both gather data and provide city residents with information about their day-to-day lives (Helmond, 2015;Klein, 2021;Srnicek, 2017). Technology companies, through the creation of urban technology platforms, play a significant role in the "datafication" of the city (Mayer-Schönberger & Cukier, 2013).…”