Cities run on data. Every streetlight, traffic sensor, meter, and public service generates information that could make urban life safer, cleaner, and more efficient. Yet much of that
potential is lost when these systems don’t talk to each other.
Interoperability is the ability of a device or system built by one supplier to dialogue with a system or device built by another, without being locked into a single ecosystem. This interoperability comes from the adoption of recognised industry standards as far as data models and communication protocols are concerned and provides systems with a
shared digital language.
In our latest paper ‘How interoperability can safeguard our future cities‘, we explore benefits and challenges of open data models and shared standards to transform fragmented digital initiatives into cohesive city ecosystems that evolve with changing needs, technology and policy.
In the paper, Julia Arneri Borghese, CEO at Paradox Engineering, explains that “Interoperability is the foundation for creating scalable, future-proof solutions for cities. By focusing on standard-based systems, we ensure that our solutions dialogue with existing and future technologies, allowing cities to maximise the value of their investments over time.”
Seth Newberry, Executive Director at the Open Mobile Alliance (OMA), which sets global standards for mobile and IoT interoperability, confirms openness is essential for sustainable progress. “Open data models deliver three core benefits: future-proofing investments, lower integration costs, and vendor diversity and innovation,” he says.
Actively engaged in OMA’s Smart City Working group, we deliver interoperability at two levels. First is the data model: its standardisation enables smooth communication and integration between systems while enhancing data integrity, minimising inconsistencies, and optimising data quality. Second level is about the network to ensure that our devices can be monitored and controlled remotely either from our central management software, or from third-party platforms.
Real-world examples from Madrid, Spain, and Las Condes, Chile, show how this vision turns into practice and how open frameworks translate into true urban resilience.
Eager to deep dive into interoperability for urban innovation? Read more on Cities Today and download our paper ‘How interoperability can safeguard our future cities‘!
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