The matrix of sensors installed inside a modern smart city collects a variety of data pertaining to the use of civic infrastructure. Public transportation networks that operate in smart cities collect data that paints a picture of accessibility to such networks by different communities. This information, when analyzed, offers fresh insights into projects that seek to build, for instance, new bus routes across the urban landscape. Similarly, street cameras connected to a digital network absorb information and generate data on instances of traffic collisions, human activity on pavements, and the movement of vehicular traffic on city roads. These sets of information assist urban planners to manage street spaces and extend or modify the urban space in tune with emerging requirements.

Modern information and communication technologies are powering IoT operations inside smart city landscapes. Specific sensors collect public safety information and process these through digital data processing platforms. These sensors build repositories of information and help law enforcers to curb civic violations and arrest criminal activity within city limits.

Similarly, data gathered from allied sensors allow civic planners to map the requirements of future infrastructure that will bolster the fundamentals of a modern smart city. In addition, social media platforms represent one form of digital technology that empowers governments to harvest public information with a view to promote smart governance.

Connected infrastructure engineered into smart cities also collects data pertaining to public health in order to facilitate remote healthcare interventions. Sensors also enable planners to improve the comfort of residents and commercial users of smart buildings. Such information helps to optimize the use of public utilities such as electricity and water.

Data-powered waste management frameworks allow improvements in the efficiency of collecting, separating, and re-cycling waste generated inside modern smart cities. Further, intelligent water management systems are enabled to reduce the cost of usage, check leakages, and boost transparency in water distribution systems. Sensors installed in smart meters collect digital information pertaining to the use of energy with a view to monitor energy consumption patterns in real time.