Methodology (Methods) for Assessing Indicators of the Development of Economic Systems and the “Smart City” System Based on Information Theory

Abstract

AbstractPurpose The purpose of the study is to solve the problem of numerical evaluation of integral indicators of the development of economic systems and the “smart city” system, as well as to develop an appropriate criterion. Design/methodology/approach The research methodology is based on a primary analysis of regulatory documents and current publications on the development of economic systems and the “smart city” system, as well as the methods of mathematical information theory. On the basis of this approach, the basic concepts of the “smart city” concept were considered, and the analysis of specialized literature was carried out. Originality/value The significant differences in the views of various scientists on the concept of “smart city” are revealed. Contradictions of interests among different groups of stakeholders of the “smart city” (citizens, businessmen, scientists, managers, politicians) can significantly reduce the effectiveness of the solutions being developed. Currently, the degree of the development of the structures of the “smart city” is assessed by formal indicators presented in the standards and guidelines. Considering the “smart city” not only as a system but also as a product, it is necessary to study it from the point of view of the interests of its consumers (stakeholders). Consumers can assess the product quality. To assess the quality of a smart city product, it is necessary to develop a numerical criterion showing the satisfaction of stakeholders’ interests. It is shown that the criterion based on the mathematical apparatus of information theory and statistics “entropy” can be applied as an adequate, accurate, and reliable criterion. For this purpose, the relevant literature is considered, affirming the statements that this approach is universal. The developed criterion makes it possible, based on a sociological survey, to compare different stages of the city’s development and determine the presence of trends toward improving the quality of life when building a “smart city”. Some issues of the formation of a “smart city” in the example of Tula, Tula region, and the Russian Federation are considered. Conclusions It has been established that the main drawback is insufficient consideration of the opinion of the citizens, while the “smart city” should be considered as a product, which should be evaluated by the consumers—the citizens. For an objective assessment, an information criterion of the quality of a “smart city” and evaluation of the trends’ development was created.KeywordsEconomic systemsSmart cityStakeholdersTrendsQualityTheory of informationEntropyJEL ClassificationC51C55L60M21M41P12P17