A Systemic Digital Transformation for Smart Net-Zero Cities: A State-of-the-Art Review

Jouzdani, Farzaneh Mohammadi and Javidroozi, Vahid and Shah, Hanifa and Mateo Garcia, Monica (2025) A Systemic Digital Transformation for Smart Net-Zero Cities: A State-of-the-Art Review. J, 8 (1). p. 11. ISSN 2571-8800

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Abstract

This paper presents a state-of-the-art review of digital transformation for developing smart net-zero cities, highlighting the significance of systems thinking and the key components of digital transformation including people, data, technology and process. Urban areas are experiencing increasing challenges from rapid growth and climate issues, making digital transformation a crucial strategy for enhancing sustainability and efficiency. In this context, systems thinking is essential, as it provides a holistic perspective that acknowledges the interdependence of urban sectors which can facilitate a more comprehensive, adaptable, and strategically integrated approach. This review examines findings from 22 sources and proposes a framework to investigate and represent the necessity of a digital transformation approach that effectively balances these elements and promotes a systems thinking approach. Also, by examining the findings from a systems thinking perspective, this research analyses the potential of effective digital transformation to support the complex needs of smart net-zero city developments. The findings indicate a widespread recognition of the digital transformation potential as a practical implementation strategy. It is imperative to formulate digital transformation strategies that are practical and comprehensively incorporate all elements: people, technology, processes, and data. Additionally, the review highlights the critical role of systems thinking in the development of these digital transformations as it facilitates the integration of interdependent urban sectors, including energy, transformation, and building, to achieve a holistic and integrated transformation.

Item Type:	Article
Identification Number:	10.3390/j8010011
Dates:	Date Event 28 February 2025 Accepted 6 March 2025 Published Online
Uncontrolled Keywords:	digital transformation, smart net-zero city, systems thinking, smart cities, net-zero cities
Subjects:	CAH11 - computing > CAH11-01 - computing > CAH11-01-01 - computer science
Divisions:	Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment > College of Built Environment Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment > College of Computing
Depositing User:	Gemma Tonks
Date Deposited:	11 Mar 2025 13:48
Last Modified:	11 Mar 2025 13:48
URI:	https://www.open-access.bcu.ac.uk/id/eprint/16229

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