A Scoring System to Measure the Smartness of Emerging Smart Cities in Developing Countries

Abstract

Rapid urban population growth, especially in developing countries, has positioned the Smart City concept as a response to complex urban challenges. However, existing performance frameworks largely reflect developed contexts and overlook the socio-economic realities of the Global South. This study develops context-specific performance measures and a scoring system for emerging Smart Cities, using Sri Lanka’s Colombo Port City as a case study. A mixed-method approach, combining expert interviews and surveys, identifies and validates key indicators across seven themes, including Smart Economy, Smart Governance, Smart Environment, and Smart Mobility. Using the Battelle method, a scalable assessment framework is proposed. The findings highlight the importance of technology readiness, citizen-centric services, and local adaptability, emphasizing that smartness requires a holistic and context-sensitive approach rather than solely technological or economic advancement.