2. SMART Cities Study: The need to assess the progress made by cities 2.1 Methodology implemented to conduct the study
2.1 Methodology implemented to conduct the study In 2005, during the II World Summit of Cities and Local Authorities on the Information Society held in Bilbao, the Local Authorities present pledged to work for the achievement of full access to the Information Society in their cities and regions through the implementation of Digital Local Agendas, local electronic strategies for the development of the information society in a given region. Now, after more than five years, it is time to take stock. The study does NOT seek to rank cities. The study is intended as a reference document for UCLG members showing members' progress with respect to ICT, innovation and knowledge.
This analysis is based on a number of monitoring indicators that allow us to know whether we are working in the appropriate direction to achieve more competitive cities/municipalities. It also seeks to identify good experiences that will lead to the subsequent exchange of knowledge between cities. In order to identify the current situation of cities, over 70 questions covering areas related to elements that comprise digital cities and knowledge were set out and a data collection form was designed. The form was made available to members in electronic format and could be accessed on the Committee's website in digital format, where it was also available for downloading. In order to notify members of the existence of this study and to encourage them to participate by completing the information collection form, the following distribution channels were used: A notification letter was sent to all Committee members An information section was created on the Committee's website. News was published on the Committee's website. Dissemination among members through letters sent by UCLG and by UCLG regional sections.
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