The metropolitan observatory of Toluca: lessons, proposals and challenges

This paper presents the main lessons learnt during building up the Metropolitan Observatory in Toluca (Observatorio Metropolitano de Toluca-METROSUM). We make some well-defined proposals towards a better creation of urban observatories and identify the most important challenges that the Red de Observatorios Urbanos Locales de Mxico-Red OUL (Local Urban Observatory Network in Mexico) will encounter. This network is supported by the UN-Habitat programme and the Mexican Federal Government. The lessons and proposals discussed here are meant to shorten the learning curve for those interested in the creation of urban observatories. The challenges identified can be seen as useful inputs in the design for institutional responses that guarantee the sustainability of Red OUL. This paper is inscribed in the field of the scarce specialised literature to guide the creation of urban observatories in developing countries.