Global Cities Index 2019: A Key Indicator of Urban Progress

The annual IMD Smart City Index Report (SCI Report) is a highly anticipated publication that provides an in-depth look at the world's most advanced cities. This year's edition, which covers 141 cities across the globe, marks a significant milestone in the index's evolution towards becoming a truly global benchmark for urban development.

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of smart city initiatives in driving economic growth, improving quality of life, and addressing pressing environmental concerns. As such, it is essential to have a comprehensive framework that evaluates the effectiveness of these efforts and provides insights into best practices.

The IMD Smart City Index 2019 builds on the success of previous editions by incorporating more capital cities from all continents, as well as 'second-tier cities' that are demonstrating remarkable dynamism and innovation. This expanded scope reflects the index's commitment to being a truly global indicator of urban progress, one that can be used to benchmark cities of all sizes and levels of development.

The 2019 report also marks a significant increase in the number of cities covered, with 23 new additions bringing the total to 141. This expanded coverage ensures that the index is more representative of the world's urban landscape, providing a more accurate reflection of the state of smart city initiatives globally.

So, what does the IMD Smart City Index 2019 reveal about the world's most advanced cities? The answer lies in its unique methodology, which assesses cities across seven key dimensions: technology, human capital, green space, transportation, health and safety, education, and economic development. By examining these factors, the index provides a comprehensive picture of each city's strengths and weaknesses, as well as areas for improvement.

The 2019 report also highlights several best practices that have emerged in cities around the world. For instance, cities like Singapore and Helsinki are demonstrating exceptional leadership in leveraging technology to enhance citizen engagement and improve public services. Meanwhile, cities like Barcelona and Copenhagen are showcasing their commitment to sustainable urban development through innovative green infrastructure projects.

In conclusion, the IMD Smart City Index 2019 is a valuable resource for city leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders seeking to understand the latest trends and best practices in urban development. By providing a detailed assessment of the world's most advanced cities, the index serves as a powerful tool for benchmarking progress, identifying areas for improvement, and informing strategic decision-making.

As the famous author Jane Jacobs once said, 'The mark of a great city isn't how it treats its special places – everybody does that right – but how it treats its ordinary ones.' The IMD Smart City Index 2019 is a testament to the power of smart city initiatives in elevating the quality of life for all citizens, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status.

Global cities index 2019