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In this course, you will be learning about smart cities, you will develop an understanding of urban infrastructure and the main principles for urban infrastructure management, , you will understand the key components that makes a smart urban infrastructure system. You will be able to learn from global case studies in Urban Planning. You will develop a special understanding of the Smart Transport & Energy Infrastructure.

The course structure is : 

•Chapter 1: Introduction to Urban Infrastructure.

•Chapter 2: Introduction to Principles of Urban Infrastructure Management

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In this course, you will be learning about smart cities, you will develop an understanding of urban infrastructure and the main principles for urban infrastructure management, , you will understand the key components that makes a smart urban infrastructure system. You will be able to learn from global case studies in Urban Planning. You will develop a special understanding of the Smart Transport & Energy Infrastructure.

The course structure is : 

•Chapter 1: Introduction to Urban Infrastructure.

•Chapter 2: Introduction to Principles of Urban Infrastructure Management

•Chapter 3: Introduction to Smart Urban Infrastructure Management

•Chapter 4: Introduction to Smart Urban Energy Systems

•Chapter 5: Introduction to Smart Urban Transport Systems.

•Chapter 6: Urban Planning Global Case Studies 1

•Chapter 7: Urban Planning Global Case Studies 2

•Chapter 8: Towards Smart Cities.

The output of this course is that you should be able write smart city studies, such as writing the key components of a smart city strategy and write feasibility studies for smart city services, take into consideration the different challenges that smart cities might face when writing these studies. This course is a key enabler in the transition to smart city services in the city. This course is designed to be an introductory course in your city journey to provide smart services for it is citizens, there is no specific type of course enrollee, you can be an urban planner, you can be an engineer, you can be a developer who is building smart city services, you can be a real estate master planner. This course is a great asset for anyone who would be living, designing or developing the smart cities of the future. Urban planning, also known as regional planning, town planning, city planning, or rural planning, is a technical and political process that is focused on the development and design of land use and the built environment, including air, water, and the infrastructure passing into and out of urban areas, such as transportation, communications, and distribution networks and their accessibility. Traditionally, urban planning followed a top-down approach in master planning the physical layout of human settlements. The primary concern was the public welfare, which included considerations of efficiency, sanitation, protection and use of the environment, as well as effects of the master plans on the social and economic activities. Over time, urban planning has adopted a focus on the social and environmental bottom-lines that focus on planning as a tool to improve the health and well-being of people while maintaining sustainability standards. Sustainable development was added as one of the main goals of all planning endeavors in the late 20th century when the detrimental economic and the environmental impacts of the previous models of planning had become apparent. Similarly, in the early 21st century, Jane Jacob's writings on legal and political perspectives to emphasize the interests of residents, businesses and communities effectively influenced urban planners to take into broader consideration of resident experiences and needs while planning.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Knowing about urban infrastructure systems & their management
  • Knowing about smart cities key concepts
  • Understand the transport and energy smart urban infrastructure and services
  • Developing feasibility studies for smart city services
  • Understand the global context of smart cities

Syllabus

Main Dimensions of Urban Infrastructure
Analytical Perspectives on Urban Infrastructure Management
Urban Infrastructure Management Principles
What do Urban Managers Do?
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides insights into the digitalization of urban planning, which is an emerging trend that is reshaping how cities are designed and managed for the future
Explores public-private partnerships, which are increasingly common in urban development projects, offering valuable knowledge for navigating these collaborations
Examines global case studies in urban planning, which allows learners to understand diverse approaches and solutions to common urban challenges around the world
Covers the challenges and opportunities associated with smart energy transition, which is crucial for creating sustainable and resilient urban environments in the future
Requires learners to develop feasibility studies for smart city services, which is a practical skill that can be applied to real-world urban development projects
Focuses on the transition to smart cities, which involves navigating challenges in the services, infrastructure, and digital layers, requiring a comprehensive understanding

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive smart cities planning & management overview

According to learners, this course receives a largely positive reception, proving to be an extremely informative introduction and comprehensive overview of Smart Cities Urban Planning & Management. Students frequently appreciate the well-structured content, clear lectures, and logical flow of topics covered in the syllabus. The inclusion of globally relevant case studies is widely praised for providing valuable real-world context. However, some reviewers note that the course is too high-level and lacks technical or practical depth, particularly concerning specific technologies and implementation details. It appears best suited for those seeking a broad, strategic understanding rather than detailed 'how-to' knowledge, which explains the divide in opinion.
Well-organized with clear lectures.
"The content is well-structured, the case studies are globally relevant, and the lectures are clear and concise."
"Excellent foundation course! The syllabus covers a wide range of topics... The videos are easy to follow..."
"Very comprehensive overview... I appreciated the logical flow of topics..."
"Excellent and comprehensive overview. The structure is logical, and the topics flow well."
Real-world examples are relevant and useful.
"The case studies were illustrative."
"...the case studies are globally relevant, and the lectures are clear and concise."
"Good course... The case studies were particularly interesting, giving real-world examples."
"...the mix of theoretical concepts and global examples worked perfectly."
Provides a solid introduction and broad view.
"This is an extremely informative introduction to Smart Cities Urban Planning & Management... I found this course provided a solid foundation."
"Excellent foundation course! The syllabus covers a wide range of topics... Perfect for someone who needs a comprehensive, yet accessible, overview..."
"Very comprehensive overview of smart cities from planning and management perspective... Useful course for professionals seeking to understand the strategic aspects..."
"A solid introduction to smart cities and urban planning. The content is relevant and the structure is clear... Overall, a good starting point."
Too high-level for technical practitioners.
"While it's a good introduction, I felt it could go into slightly more technical depth on some of the 'smart' technology aspects."
"The course gives a decent introduction, but it feels a bit too high-level at times... I was hoping for more practical examples... not enough for practitioners seeking detailed 'how-to' knowledge."
"Found the course okay, but a bit too theoretical and high-level for my needs. I work in urban technology implementation and was hoping for more practical, hands-on content or specific technical examples."
"My only minor criticism is that some sections could be more detailed, especially regarding data management and specific technologies used in smart infrastructure."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Smart Cities Urban Planning & Management with these activities:
Review Urban Infrastructure Basics
Reinforce your understanding of fundamental urban infrastructure concepts before diving into smart city applications.
Show steps
  • Review notes from previous urban planning or engineering courses.
  • Read introductory articles on urban infrastructure systems.
  • Identify key components of urban infrastructure.
Review 'The Smart Enough City'
Gain a critical perspective on the role of technology in urban environments.
Show steps
  • Read the book, focusing on case studies and critiques of smart city initiatives.
  • Summarize the author's main arguments about the limitations of technology.
  • Reflect on how these arguments relate to the course content.
Create a Smart City Concept Map
Visualize the interconnectedness of various components within a smart city ecosystem.
Show steps
  • Identify key elements of a smart city (e.g., transport, energy, governance).
  • Illustrate the relationships between these elements in a concept map.
  • Add examples of technologies and strategies for each element.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Develop a Feasibility Study Outline
Practice the skills necessary to assess the viability of smart city projects.
Show steps
  • Choose a specific smart city service (e.g., smart parking, waste management).
  • Research existing solutions and technologies for that service.
  • Outline the key sections of a feasibility study (e.g., market analysis, cost-benefit analysis).
  • Identify potential challenges and risks.
Design a Smart City Data Visualization
Communicate complex urban data in an accessible and engaging way.
Show steps
  • Select a relevant dataset related to urban infrastructure (e.g., traffic patterns, energy consumption).
  • Choose an appropriate visualization method (e.g., map, chart, graph).
  • Create a clear and informative visualization using data visualization tools.
Review 'Streetfight'
Understand how to reclaim city streets for pedestrians and cyclists.
Show steps
  • Read the book, focusing on case studies of successful urban transformations.
  • Summarize the author's main arguments about the importance of people-centered design.
  • Reflect on how these arguments relate to the course content.
Volunteer with a Local Urban Planning Organization
Gain practical experience and contribute to real-world urban planning projects.
Show steps
  • Research local urban planning organizations or initiatives.
  • Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Participate in volunteer activities, such as community outreach or data collection.

Career center

Learners who complete Smart Cities Urban Planning & Management will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Smart City Program Manager
A Smart City Program Manager leads the planning, implementation, and management of initiatives that integrate technology and data to improve urban services and quality of life. The Smart City Program Manager should be well-versed in urban infrastructure and management. A course such as this one provides a strong foundation. Given its focus on key components of smart urban infrastructure systems, you will be able to create a vision for smart cities. You will also be better prepared to write feasibility studies for smart city services.
Urban Planner
An Urban Planner shapes the development of cities and towns, focusing on land use, infrastructure, and community needs. This course helps those aspiring to become an Urban Planner given its detailed analysis of urban infrastructure and management principles. In particular, the course focuses on the main concepts of smart cities, which is a growing area of interest in Urban Planning. The global case studies in urban planning covered by this course are useful. The course also offers a deeper understanding of smart transport and energy infrastructure, helping an Urban Planner create more sustainable designs.
Urban Designer
An Urban Designer focuses on the aesthetic and functional design of urban spaces, considering factors like public spaces, buildings, and streetscapes. This course is a great fit if you want to become an Urban Designer. It offers insights into urban infrastructure and management principles. The coverage of global case studies in urban planning can prove very helpful to you. An Urban Designer would benefit from the course’s special understanding of smart transport and energy infrastructure. Having this knowledge would allow them to integrate sustainability and efficiency into their designs.
Urban Development Consultant
An Urban Development Consultant advises public and private sector clients on urban planning, development, and revitalization projects. As an Urban Development Consultant, understanding urban infrastructure and management principles is critical. This course is uniquely designed to provide these insights. The global case studies in urban planning can help a consultant benchmark and apply best practices. The focus on smart transport and energy infrastructure helps anyone in Urban Development offer innovative, sustainable solutions to clients.
Land Use Planner
A Land Use Planner develops and implements policies and plans related to the use of land, considering factors such as zoning, transportation, and environmental impact. This course may be useful for those in or hoping to enter Land Use Planning. It provides an overview of those main principles that form urban infrastructure. You may find the global case studies in urban planning to be helpful. The course can shape how a Land Use Planner designs land and uses practices in a sustainable and efficient manner.
Transportation Planner
A Transportation Planner designs and improves transportation systems to ensure efficient and safe movement of people and goods. For anyone aspiring to become a Transportation Planner, a course such as this one may be useful due to its focus on smart urban transport systems. Gaining insights into the components of such systems can inform the development of better transportation strategies. The course also provides an overview of urban planning global case studies, which would help anyone interested in Transportation Planning understand different approaches to urban transport challenges worldwide.
Public Works Director
The Public Works Director oversees the maintenance and improvement of a city's infrastructure, including roads, water systems, and waste management. This course will benefit those in the position of Public Works Director, because it gives them an overview of urban infrastructure and its management. The course emphasizes key components of smart urban infrastructure systems. This helps anyone in Public Works adopt innovative solutions for improving infrastructure. The global case studies in urban planning that are covered in the course also add practical context to the theoretical frameworks presented.
Environmental Planner
An Environmental Planner develops plans and policies to protect the environment and promote sustainable development within urban and rural areas. This course may be useful for an Environmental Planner because it introduces key concepts related to urban infrastructure management, smart cities, and sustainable practices. The course's coverage of global case studies in urban planning can provide valuable insights into sustainable urban development practices. Additionally, the course's focus on smart transport and energy infrastructure may enhance your ability to develop effective environmental protection and conservation strategies.
Infrastructure Manager
An Infrastructure Manager oversees the construction, maintenance, and improvement of infrastructure systems like roads, bridges, and utilities. This course may benefit someone interested in becoming an Infrastructure Manager because it introduces the principles of urban infrastructure management. The course emphasizes components of smart urban infrastructure systems, which helps Infrastructure Managers adopt innovative solutions for enhancing infrastructure performance. The global case studies in urban planning add practical context to the theoretical concepts discussed.
Energy Analyst
An Energy Analyst researches and analyzes energy systems to improve efficiency and sustainability, often working on projects related to renewable energy or energy conservation. For an aspiring Energy Analyst, this course may be useful. It provides an introduction to smart urban energy systems. The course also discusses the challenges and opportunities associated with a smart energy transition. This knowledge enables an Energy Analyst to assess and develop effective strategies for sustainable energy solutions in urban environments.
Community Development Manager
A Community Development Manager works to improve the social, economic, and physical aspects of a community through planning and implementing various projects. For anyone aspiring to be a Community Development Manager, this course may be helpful. It offers valuable insights into urban infrastructure, management principles, and the development of smart cities. The course includes global case studies in urban planning, which can inform strategies for community improvement initiatives. The understanding of smart transport and energy infrastructure can further enrich your approach to community development challenges.
Sustainability Manager
A Sustainability Manager develops and implements strategies to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainable practices within an organization or community. This course may be useful as it introduces key concepts related to urban infrastructure management, smart cities, and smart energy systems. If you want to pursue a career as a Sustainability Manager, then the course's coverage of global case studies in urban planning can provide valuable insights into sustainable urban development practices. Furthermore, the understanding of smart transport and energy infrastructure provided in this course may enhance your ability to develop effective sustainability initiatives.
Civil Engineer
A Civil Engineer designs, constructs, and maintains public works projects such as roads, bridges, water and wastewater systems, and other infrastructure. This course may be helpful for a career as a Civil Engineer. It provides an overview of those main principles that form urban infrastructure. You may find the global case studies in urban planning to be helpful. The course can shape how a Civil Engineer designs infrastructure practices in a sustainable and efficient manner.
Real Estate Developer
A Real Estate Developer manages the planning, development, and construction of properties, including residential, commercial, and industrial projects. This course may prove useful for those in Real Estate Development. The course will allow you to understand urban infrastructure, management, and the components of a smart urban infrastructure system. The global case studies in urban planning covered in the course may also add nuance to your understanding. The course may help a Real Estate Developer better integrate smart city principles into their projects.
GIS Analyst
A Geographic Information Systems Analyst uses software to analyze and visualize spatial data for urban planning, environmental management, and other applications. This course is appropriate for a career as a Geographic Information Systems Analyst, offering insights into urban infrastructure, management, and the components of a smart urban infrastructure system. The global case studies in urban planning covered in the course may also add nuance to your understanding. The course may help a Geographic Information Systems Analyst better understand the needs of the populations they serve.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Smart Cities Urban Planning & Management.
Details how to reclaim city streets for pedestrians and cyclists. It provides case studies of successful urban transformations around the world. Reading this book will help you understand the importance of people-centered design in urban planning. It is valuable as additional reading to broaden your perspective on urban mobility.
Offers a critical perspective on smart city technologies, emphasizing community needs and ethical considerations. It provides a balanced view, cautioning against technological solutionism and promoting human-centered design. Reading this book will help you develop a more nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities in smart city development. It is valuable as additional reading to broaden your perspective.

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