This paper examines different approaches to smart city development that reflect different ways in which cities are governed, and different pathways urban governments take to become smart. The main research question is: When comparing a selection of smart city projects, how can pathways for their implementation be classified? By using a comparative case study research design the present study mapped how different design choices of smart cities play out in their implementation and governance. The authors analyse four cases: Smart Dubai, Masdar City, Barcelona Smart City, and Amsterdam Smart City. Continue reading →