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Data from mobile phone operators: A tool for smarter cities?

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  • Steenbruggen, John
  • Tranos, Emmanouil
  • Nijkamp, Peter

Abstract

The use of mobile phone data provides new spatio-temporal tools for improving urban planning, and for reducing inefficiencies in present-day urban systems. Data from mobile phones, originally intended as a communication tool, are increasingly used as innovative tools in geography and social sciences research. Empirical studies on complex city systems from human-centred and urban dynamics perspectives provide new insights to develop promising applications for supporting smart city initiatives. This paper provides a comprehensive review and a typology of spatial studies on mobile phone data, and highlights the applicability of such digital data to develop innovative applications for enhanced urban management.

Suggested Citation

  • Steenbruggen, John & Tranos, Emmanouil & Nijkamp, Peter, 2015. "Data from mobile phone operators: A tool for smarter cities?," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 39(3), pages 335-346.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:telpol:v:39:y:2015:i:3:p:335-346
    DOI: 10.1016/j.telpol.2014.04.001
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