The Role of Urban Rankings in the Construction of Perception on Innovation In Smart Cities

Abstract

It is perceived in contemporary times the use of innumerable different rankings each with its different criteria and goals, varying according to the applied methodology, country, time, audience and other requirements, however every ranking seeks to validate something in relation to similar objects or themes. Thus, it is sought to understand the function of the rankings in what concerns to the perception about the construction of the concept of smart cities, positioning them as innovators, at the same time that they anchor them strategically in smart management. It is a qualitative study with bibliographical research on: smart cities, urban rankings, innovation and strategic urban management. It is a study of multiple cases of cities that occupy the first positions in the rankings on smart cities. The methodology uses the articulation between theory and empirical observation of three urban rankings in 2018: the CSC, the EIU and the CIMI. It is noted that the use of urban rankings are used strategically by municipal management, transforming, projecting and ambitioning that the city be perceived as an smart city.