A research on smart city applications in Düzce

This study aims to examine the status of smart city applications in the province of Düzce and assess the local community's perception of these applications. Smart city applications are designed to enhance the efficient use of resources, strategic urban management, stakeholder participation, communication, innovation ecosystem, and quality of life. This study emphasizes that smart city applications should not only be institutionally driven but also citizen-centric. The study employs a mixed-method research approach to integrate quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data are collected through online surveys among residents of the city center of Düzce. Qualitative data are obtained through structured interviews regarding Düzce's smart city strategies and implementations. The research findings evaluate the perception and expectations of smart cities in Düzce province. The participants represent a diverse range of age groups, with a balanced gender distribution and a majority of long-term residents in Düzce. The use of smart devices, especially smartphones, televisions, and home appliances, is widespread, but interest in smart transportation vehicles is low. Participants indicated active use of social media, primarily for following institutions. Among mobile applications specific to Düzce, Düzce University and the Kent Kart application stand out. Participants emphasized the need for Düzce to become a green and sustainable city, highlighting the importance of environmental issues such as air pollution. The research addresses six components of smart city applications: governance, environment, mobility, economy, life, and people. Participants particularly emphasized mobility, information and communication technologies, and quality of life among these components. Adequacy in disaster preparedness was mentioned, but shortcomings were identified in urban transformation efforts and energy efficiency. The results indicate that safety, disaster management, and geography are well-received aspects of Düzce. However, more effort is required in the areas of economy, renewable energy, and infrastructure. The interviews provide a detailed overview of existing smart city applications in Düzce. These applications exhibit diversity across the dimensions of governance, environment, mobility, economy, life, and people. In conclusion, this study has examined smart city applications in the province of Düzce and the perception of its citizens, aiming to provide guidance for future projects. The importance of citizen-centric smart city applications that respond to the expectations of the local community has emerged as a significant emphasis. This research aims to contribute to Düzce Municipality and other relevant stakeholders by offering academic and practical recommendations.