Municipal Digital Platforms in the Urban Socio-Economic Development(A Case Study of Amsterdam and Berlin)

Abstract

The modern realities of urban development dictate the need to search for new effective tools to solve emerging problems and leverage promising opportunities. Municipal digital platforms can become one such tool. Using the examples of two European capitals – Amsterdam and Berlin – thе article demonstrates how platforms facilitate the interaction of key stakeholders to improve the quality of urban life. It is identified that in Amsterdam, “Amsterdam Smart City” (ASC) plays a key role in the city's sustainable development. ASC brings together local authorities, research institutions, companies, and residents to address urban issues such as reducing CO2 emissions and improving mobility. The platform is based on a collective approach, innovation, knowledge dissemination, and economic viability. ASC provides educational opportunities and supports projects related to energy transition, mobility, and quality of life improvement. The development of Berlin as a smart city includes the integration of various sources of information, efficient resource utilisation, and active involvement of citizens and investors. The “CityLAB Berlin” program represents an open innovation laboratory where government agencies, companies, and residents develop and implement digital solutions for sustainable development. The program's key principles include a collective approach, innovation, knowledge dissemination, and economic viability. Unlike other platforms, in Berlin, companies are the main partners, contributing to the launch of innovative projects. Projects such as open data and energy sustainability demonstrate success in achieving sustainable development. The platform actively engages in social development, supporting the participation of various population groups and conducting educational programs for municipal employees. The research allows identifying the most successful elements of practice in creating smart cities using municipal digital platforms and demonstrates to what extent these initiatives can be implemented in the development of other cities.

Keywords

• digital platform
• municipal digital platform
• uberisation
• sustainable development
• city development strategy
• urban economy
• amsterdam