Smart cities

Reimagining the future of our urban spaces—so that together we can ensure tomorrow’s cities work for everyone.

Envisioning smart cities that work 

Most of us have heard the term “smart city” used in different ways, in different contexts — by political leaders, businesspeople, and activists — but what does it really mean?

In theory, a smart city could be a technological utopia: a place where intelligent sensors watch for congested intersections and traffic patterns, or track resource use, so that urban planners and policymakers can address problems with responsive, innovative solutions. But in practice, there are risks involved that could appear decidedly bleak in a worst-case scenario: a city where big data and “Big Brother” start to merge as we supply data in real-time to opaque authorities.

That’s why we need to emphasize human-centred design as we start to build these new, technologically-enabled urban environments. We’re experiencing the highest levels of urbanization since WWI. As cities adapt and innovate, we have an unprecedented opportunity to create urban spaces that use technology and data to not only serve, but also improve society. 

We all have a stake in the smart city, and the time to join the conversation is now. To reimagine the future of our urban spaces—so that together we can ensure tomorrow’s cities work for everyone.

Chris Dulny
Chief Innovation Officer

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Contact us

Andrew Popliger

Andrew Popliger

National Technology Leader, PwC Canada

Tel: +1 514 205 5181

Joon Chan

Joon Chan

Partner, PwC Canada

Tel: +1 403 509 6626

Melanie Campbell

Melanie Campbell

Partner, Corporate Tax, PwC Canada

Tel: +1 604 806 7284

Shivalika Handa

Shivalika Handa

Managing Director, PwC Canada

Tel: +1 416 687 8716

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