Smart Cities as Collaborative Innovation Projects

This paper presents initial research within a broader discourse about smart cities. Despite the existence of various discussions about the concept many questions are still opened. We bridge the gap by investigating the role of local governments and their initiatives to integrate new technologies in a city context. The study aims to investigate the adoption of technological innovation in smart cities at a local level. In this short paper we describe the future research plan that is divided into three parts: concept, methodology and expected results. Substantial input will be provided in the area of public-private partnership, focusing on the challenge for local governments who seek smart solutions in collaboration with business structures.