Empowering Citizens in Smart Cities: Using Social Media to Understand Public Opinion

What is it about?

Researchers have focused on how computer science and urban planning intersect in the last ten years. They're looking at how social media, as a real-time source of citizen feedback, can be used to improve smart city initiatives. However, the key factors for making this approach successful haven't been fully examined. Our study looks at different elements from existing research to design a more effective platform for citizen participation. We propose a platform that follows data protection regulations, uses advanced text analysis and natural language processing tools to understand opinions and emotions, keeps communication going between citizens and city planners, uses creative visualization techniques, provides useful information to its intended audience, takes into account the diversity of the community, and finally can be used alongside traditional ways of citizen involvement. Our platform can be used to analyze sentiments, encourage e-participation, mine social media, analyze big data, and engage citizens.

Featured Image

Photo by Grab on Unsplash

Photo by Grab on Unsplash

Why is it important?

We explore the potential of utilizing social media as a valuable source of real-time citizen feedback to improve Smart City initiatives. Our study created a more efficient e-participation platform by understanding the factors contributing to success. This platform has significant implications for urban planning and citizen engagement by enabling city planners to make informed decisions based on real-time citizen feedback, sentiments, and opinions. Additionally, the platform's ability to comply with data protection regulations and consider socio-cultural diversity demonstrates a commitment to ethical and inclusive citizen involvement in urban development. Our research contributes to advancing smart city initiatives and enhancing citizen participation in urban planning processes.

Perspectives