It seems the computing age is rapidly advancing the way we live our lives in almost every facet.  Across the globe as consumers we see how technology is advancing education, communication and the quality of life for people of all demographic backgrounds. From online college courses, to kids’ texting 24 by 7, to grandparents’ video chatting with their families, it would seem technology knows no boundaries.
One area where technology seems to be having a significant impact is on housing communities like InfoCity or what the industry refers to as Smart Cities. Some of the biggest trends to watch for include the following:

• Big Data.  Low cost hardware and the advent of the Cloud has allowed Smart City managers and operators to integrate computing systems to share data and manage administrative functions. From police accident notifications, to population traffic to overseeing power and utility services, these unified solutions create operating efficiency for both owners and residents.  They also allow owners to use information to respond to issues in a timely manner avoiding unnecessary resident issues or even potential law suits.
• Internet of Things.   IOT has taken off and is definitely a trend that you don’t want to let pass you by.  At Creative Choice Group we work with all kinds of properties.  From affordable housing in Florida, to InfoCity in India, we have seen an increased interest in smart devices.  One could say that Smart Cities by design have always leveraged smart devices for example using sensors to monitor building temperature or automatically turn on and off parking lights. However implementing IOT enabled city systems involves a great deal of planning and integration with existing systems. Wireless networks will be a critical enabler for some of the devices most desired by residents.
• Eye in the Sky. The use of Satellite sensors, such as image cameras, has increased this year and looks to continue to grow. Using the precise measurement of buildings through satellite feeds rather than by wasting the time of scarce employees will increase efficiency as well as allow for greater remote property management.
• Dashboards. Helping residents with self-service tools is a huge trend across all industries.  Integrating consumer data for services like energy or phone and internet access is another opportunity to enhance the customer experience.  The personal dashboards delivered in the form of user portal/walled garden, allows the Smart City to provide more individual services to consumers and businesses, while taking care of privacy and security concerns.
• Fun in the City.  Technology is innovative and helpful but not always considered “fun”.  However, we are starting to see some fun trends even in Smart Cities.  A couple examples include things like playful pedestrian traffic lights and or even amusing illuminations that are festive for the residents. Creating a positive environment that fosters goodwill and general wellbeing is just another way to differentiate your Smart City in 2015 and beyond.

It is safe to say that technology is playing a heavy role in bringing people closer to their city managers and definitely making their cities even smarter!