The indicators included in ISO 37120 and performance measurement in smart cities

Abstract

Purpose: Local government units are undergoing a shift in management practices driven by the implementation of the New Public Management (NPM) doctrine. One element of NPM is the measurement of performance in local government. As cities grow, the new concept of ‘smart cities’ is rapidly developing. However, it is difficult to determine how to measure the level of ‘smartness’. This paper focuses on measuring the performance of smart cities using the indicators included in ISO 37120. Methodology/approach: In the theoretical part, we overview the aims of performance measurement within NPM and the idea of smart cities. Meanwhile, the empirical part includes statistical data to analyse performance measurement using the indicators included in ISO 37120. Findings: Performance measurement is possible using the indicators included in ISO 37120. The indicators make it possible to compare the results of cities in various countries. Thus, standardising the indicators is the key to the development of smart city performance measurement. Originality/value: Our findings will be of value for future research about using ISO standards for the performance management of smart cities. Our research is also important for implementing NPM in local government. Research limitations: Due to a lack of data, the observation period is too short to make a more in-depth analysis.