Smart cities according to ISO 37122: Portoviejo case study -Ecuador

Abstract

Smart cities integrate technology to optimize essential services such as healthcare, mobility, and security, in alignment with ISO 37122 guidelines. This study aimed to assess citizens’ perceptions of Portoviejo’s transition toward a smart city through theevaluation of ISO 37122 indicators, identifying gaps, opportunities, and priority intervention areas to support evidence-based decision-making for more efficient and sustainable urban management. A quantitative, descriptive-correlational, and cross-sectional design was employed. Data were collected via a survey covering all 80 ISO 37122 indicators, with participation from 253 respondents. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS software, including Chi-square tests to examine variable associations. Results indicated generally positive citizen perceptions across multiple indicators; however, lower scores were observed for digital governance, smart public transportation, and collaborative economy. Significant correlations emerged with sociodemographic variables such as gender, age, education level, and parish of residence. The findings underscore the necessity for technical indicators to reflect local realities and for citizen input to inform the development of equitable urban policies. This research contributes valuable empirical evidence for formulating context-sensitive and sustainable strategies for intermediatecities in developing countries.