AI, digital transformation, and the public sector: rethinking technology governance through the lens of smart city development
Distinguished Research Seminar Series
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Date
04 Dec 2025
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Organiser
Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, PolyU
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Time
16:00 - 17:30
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Venue
BC301
Speaker
Prof. Luca Mora
Remarks
If you have enquiries regarding E-certificate after the seminar, please contact david.kuo@polyu.edu.hk.
Summary
As urbanization accelerates, cities face increasingly complex sustainability challenges—from energy inefficiencies and water scarcity to housing inequality and environmental degradation. In response, smart city projects are being adopted globally to harness digital technologies for public value creation. However, the governance of such initiatives remains fragmented, often constrained by a lack of strategic vision, inadequate regulatory frameworks, and limited civic participation. This presentation draws on over a decade of research on smart city governance and is informed by the outcomes of multiple projects conducted under the framework of United Nations’ People-Centered Smart Cities program. These initiatives have helped translate academic insights into international policy guidelines that support national and local governments in navigating digital transitions in ethical, inclusive, and sustainable ways. The presentation explores the ongoing paradigm shift from traditional government to multi-actor governance, emphasizing the need for collaborative and context-sensitive models. It offers strategic insights into how public institutions can overcome common governance inefficiencies and institutionalize digital transformation processes. Ultimately, the presentation aims to bridge the gap between research and practice, providing actionable recommendations for managing smart city governance in ways that ensure inclusivity, accountability, and the true delivery of public value.
Keynote Speaker
Prof. Luca Mora
Professor of Urban Innovation & Editor-in-Chief (Technological Forecasting and Social Change)
The Business School, Edinburgh Napier University, UK
Professor Luca Mora is among the top 2% most cited scientists globally, according to the Stanford-Elsevier ranking. He serves as the Professor of Urban Innovation at both Edinburgh Napier University in the UK and Tallinn University of Technology in Estonia. Additionally, he is the founding director of the Urban Innovation Policy Lab at Edinburgh Napier University and co-editor-in-chief of the journal Technological Forecasting & Social Change, which has an impact factor of 13.2 and is ranked Q1 by CABS. With over 15 years of experience at the intersection of urban studies, computer science, and innovation management, Prof. Mora conducts multidisciplinary research focused on smart city development and digital transformation management. His work bridges academia, policy, and practice, emphasizing the societal impact of digital technologies. His key achievements include securing over €43 million in research and consultancy funding, contributing to the design and delivery of more than 20 funded projects, many as the principal investigator. He has built a global research and policy network, establishing collaborations with over 400 organizations across 45 countries, including partnerships with the European Commission, several United Nations agencies, development banks, and leading universities worldwide. Prof. Mora has published more than 50 peer-reviewed articles in top-tier journals such as Public Administration Review, Information Systems Journal, Organization Studies, and Public Administration Review, Information Systems Journal, Organization Studies, . As an international speaker and thought leader, he has delivered keynote speeches at over 60 global events across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, addressing topics like digital innovation management and smart city governance. His influence extends to global smart city policy, having served as an academic consultant for organizations such as the United Nations, CAF – The Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean, and the European Commission. He has authored four UN reports on smart city governance and digital innovation and has played a significant role in shaping the International Guidelines for People-Centered Smart Cities, impacting national and local policies.
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