Digital transformation is in line with the trend of innovative urban development and industrial upgrading and plays an increasingly important role in urban development. The digitalization of cities is vital to reducing citizens' administrative burden, promoting the interaction between government and citizens, and improving the quality of government services. A digital city can also guide urban innovation and spur the growth of data-driven businesses. This week’s In Focus will introduce five innovative acts that demonstrate digital transformation. Let’s check out five cases related to digital transformation in urban design!

Vienna's population has grown by about 300,000 in the past decade. The rapid expansion of the population has led to a growing demand for social infrastructure. In this context, the number of applications and steps related to infrastructure construction is also increasing. 

To reduce the construction approval cycle and improve urban construction efficiency, Vienna's government has adopted the BRISE project. BRISE is a building information system that combines artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR). With 3D building models and other modern technologies, it can quickly process applicants' data, match existing laws, and provide immediate feedback on projects' content. BRISE can improve the quantity and quality of architectural design while reducing the time and cost of urban construction and further maintain friendly relations between the Vienna city building authorities and citizens.

More info:

http://uia-initiative.eu/en/uia-cities/vienna-call4

RUDI：Rennes Urban Data Interface

In the provision of local public services, urban construction is faced with double requirements: adapting to the new service requirements while maintaining public services' inherent standards. To process large amounts of data efficiently, Rennes designed the RUDI interface to share and exchange data by developing an innovative web interface. 

The RUDI project is based on a data category that provides data for individuals and groups. Individuals can manage and protect private information through it, and groups or developers can legally obtain relevant data, develop the project, or conduct research. The RUDI project meets the dual requirements of urban construction by handing over the data initiative to the citizens, reducing the government's burden, and improving the work's efficiency.

More info:

http://uia-initiative.eu/en/uia-cities/rennes-metropole

Ravenna，Italy

DARE: Digital Environment for collaborative alliances to regenerate urban ecosystems in middle-sized cities

We cannot separate the process of urban renewal and development from professionals as well as every resident. To get policymakers and citizens involved in developing cities and getting more advice, the Ravenna administration has set up a DARE collaboration platform. 

On this platform, all data related to urban development is open and transparent. People can understand the rationales behind the decision-making, grasp regional construction, and thus put forward their ideas and suggestions. The DARE platform transforms citizens from bystanders into city builders. This participatory culture will make Ravenna a safer, more inclusive, and more attractive city for innovation.

More info:

http://uia-initiative.eu/en/uia-cities/ravenna

VoxPop aims to improve and maintain the transport system by creating an ecosystem of transport data sharing that provides users with an electronic platform to express their views on transport efficiently, translating their feedback into concrete measures. By creating a user-centric digital service platform, VoxPop can unlock more effective ways to plan and maintain transportation systems. Besides, from the perspective of sustainable development, the project will improve urban mobile systems' efficiency and contribute to reducing carbon dioxide emissions, improving the quality of life, and achieving sustainable development.

More info:
https://uia-initiative.eu/en/uia-cities/lisbon

The digital platform consists of three main features: A mobile application for citizens, a web application for entrepreneurs, and a dashboard for uploading and controlling tasks. Citizens can receive local digital currency rewards by completing tasks related to urban construction issued by the government. The WESH project can promote the local retail economy's development while increasing citizen participation and bringing a stronger sense of belonging.

More info:

https://uia-initiative.eu/en/uia-cities/heerlen