Are German cities keeping up with the pace of digitalization? A recent study by Haselhorst Associates Consulting suggests otherwise. It reveals that German cities are falling behind in embracing digitalization and are failing to fulfil their obligations towards climate change mitigation.
For the study, 32,500 data sets from a total of 407 German cities with a population of 30,000 or more were examined on the basis of the following 10 smart city areas: strategy and implementation, digital infrastructure, digital mobility, digital energy & environment, digital buildings & neighbourhoods, digital health, digital education, digital administration, digital business & commerce and digital tourism.
The findings of the study are disheartening. Not a single city surveyed managed to achieve a digitization level of 50 per cent. What's even more alarming is that over three-quarters of the municipalities fell short of reaching a digitization level of 25 per cent. When comparing the current study with the pioneering one from 2018, it becomes evident that the number of cities leading the way in digitization has reached a standstill. This stagnation signifies that Germany's smart cities are not progressing any further.
The consultant team emphasizes the significance of three key factors for becoming a smart city: a meticulously planned strategy, a robust digital infrastructure, and active engagement of all stakeholders and citizens.
Stralsund, a city in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania with a population of around 60,000, has emerged as a shining example of embracing digitalization and achieving remarkable progress. In the latest survey, Stralsund has made an impressive leap from rank 362 to rank 76 compared to the previous year. The city's success can be attributed to its comprehensive smart city strategy and innovative measures that have already yielded positive results. Not only does Stralsund actively involve its citizens in the development process, but it also spearheads the expansion of renewable energies, further solidifying its commitment to a sustainable future.
The City of Gelsenkirchen is a shining example of progress in embracing digitalization. At bee smart city, we had the privilege of supporting the city in developing its smart city strategy, resulting in the creation of the Integrated Strategy of the Digital City of Gelsenkirchen. This comprehensive strategy serves as a blueprint for sustainable, social, and participatory development in the Connected City of Gelsenkirchen. Its primary goal is to enhance the prosperity and quality of life for Gelsenkirchen's citizens while fostering a competitive and future-oriented economy.
Image source: Haselhorst Associates Consulting, Web-Grafik: "Die 10 smartesten Städte Deutschlands"