Smart Cities

Scope & Guideline

Empowering Urban Solutions Through Open Access Research

Introduction

Welcome to the Smart Cities information hub, where our guidelines provide a wealth of knowledge about the journal’s focus and academic contributions. This page includes an extensive look at the aims and scope of Smart Cities, highlighting trending and emerging areas of study. We also examine declining topics to offer insight into academic interest shifts. Our curated list of highly cited topics and recent publications is part of our effort to guide scholars, using these guidelines to stay ahead in their research endeavors.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN-
PublisherMDPI
Support Open AccessNo
Country-
Type-
Converge-
AbbreviationSMART CITIES-BASEL / Smart Cities
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressST ALBAN-ANLAGE 66, CH-4052 BASEL, SWITZERLAND

Aims and Scopes

The journal 'Smart Cities' serves as a platform for interdisciplinary research that addresses the multifaceted challenges and opportunities presented by urbanization in the context of smart city development. It emphasizes the integration of technology, sustainability, and community engagement to enhance urban living conditions.
  1. Urban Technology Integration:
    Focuses on the adoption and implementation of smart technologies such as IoT, AI, and data analytics to improve urban infrastructure and services.
  2. Sustainable Urban Development:
    Explores strategies for achieving sustainability in urban environments, including energy management, waste reduction, and carbon neutrality.
  3. Community Engagement and Social Inclusion:
    Investigates the role of citizen participation in smart city initiatives, ensuring that the development process is inclusive and addresses the needs of diverse populations.
  4. Transportation and Mobility Solutions:
    Covers advancements in urban mobility, including smart transportation systems, shared mobility, and the integration of electric vehicles.
  5. Resilience and Risk Management:
    Examines approaches to enhancing urban resilience against climate change, natural disasters, and other risks through innovative planning and infrastructure.
  6. Governance and Policy Frameworks:
    Analyzes the governance structures and policy frameworks necessary for the successful implementation of smart city projects, including e-governance and public-private partnerships.
The journal is witnessing a surge in interest in several emerging themes that reflect the evolving landscape of smart cities. These trends highlight the need for innovative solutions to contemporary urban challenges.
  1. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Applications:
    Research on AI and machine learning is rapidly increasing, focusing on their applications in urban management, predictive analytics, and decision-making processes.
  2. Sustainable Energy Solutions:
    There is a growing emphasis on renewable energy integration, energy efficiency, and smart grid technologies as cities strive for sustainability and resilience.
  3. Blockchain for Urban Services:
    The application of blockchain technology is gaining traction, particularly in areas such as data security, smart contracts, and decentralized governance.
  4. Health and Well-Being in Urban Environments:
    Studies addressing the intersection of urban design, public health, and well-being are emerging, particularly in the context of post-pandemic recovery.
  5. Data Privacy and Cybersecurity:
    With the rise of smart technologies, there is an increasing focus on the implications of data privacy and cybersecurity in smart city initiatives.
  6. Nature-Based Solutions for Urban Challenges:
    Research is trending towards incorporating nature-based solutions to enhance urban resilience and sustainability, emphasizing green spaces and ecosystem services.

Declining or Waning

While the journal continues to thrive in its core areas, some themes appear to be losing prominence. This decline may reflect shifting priorities in urban studies or the maturation of certain technologies and concepts.
  1. Traditional Urban Planning Approaches:
    There is a noticeable decrease in publications focused on conventional urban planning methodologies as the field increasingly embraces technology-driven solutions.
  2. Static Infrastructure Models:
    Research centered on fixed infrastructure models is diminishing as the focus shifts toward dynamic, adaptive systems that respond to real-time data and user needs.
  3. Basic Data Collection Techniques:
    Papers that discuss rudimentary data collection methods are less frequent, indicating a shift towards sophisticated, integrated data analytics and machine learning techniques.
  4. Generalized Studies on Smart Cities:
    Broad, non-specific studies on smart cities are declining in favor of more targeted research that addresses specific challenges or technologies within smart city frameworks.
  5. Single-Disciplinary Research:
    There is a waning interest in studies that do not incorporate interdisciplinary perspectives, as the complexity of urban challenges demands collaborative approaches.

Similar Journals

COMPUTERS ENVIRONMENT AND URBAN SYSTEMS

Advancing Sustainable Solutions for Urban Futures
Publisher: ELSEVIER SCI LTDISSN: 0198-9715Frequency: 6 issues/year

COMPUTERS ENVIRONMENT AND URBAN SYSTEMS, published by Elsevier Science Ltd, is a premier journal dedicated to advancing the intersection of computational techniques and urban environmental studies. With an ISSN of 0198-9715 and an E-ISSN of 1873-7587, this journal has established itself as a leading publication since its inception, spanning its converged years from 1980 to 1986 and from 1988 to 2024. Operating out of the United Kingdom and located at 125 London Wall, London EC2Y 5AS, the journal boasts impressive rankings, with a Q1 classification in multiple categories including Ecological Modeling and Urban Studies, solidifying its reputation in the academic community. Researchers and professionals engaged in ecological modeling, urban geography, and spatial planning will find a wealth of high-quality research articles that facilitate innovative solutions to contemporary urban challenges. Although the journal does not currently offer open access options, it remains a crucial resource for scholars aiming to contribute to the sustainable development of urban environments.

Sustainable Cities and Society

Exploring the intersection of sustainability and urban development.
Publisher: ELSEVIERISSN: 2210-6707Frequency: 8 issues/year

Sustainable Cities and Society is a premier journal published by Elsevier, focusing on the interdisciplinary nexus of urban development, sustainability, and environmental challenges. With an impressive impact factor and recognized as a Q1 journal in multiple categories—including Civil and Structural Engineering, Geography, Planning and Development, Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment, and Transportation—this journal stands out as a crucial platform for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers. The journal has been dedicated to advancing knowledge since its inception in 2011 and continues to be a vital resource for innovative solutions that foster sustainable urban environments. By featuring high-quality research, case studies, and reviews, it serves as an essential reference point for contemporary issues in urban planning and sustainable development. The journal's commitment to excellence is evident in its rankings, and it remains a go-to source for those invested in creating cities that are resilient, eco-friendly, and socially equitable.

Vehicles

Fostering Collaboration in Automotive Excellence
Publisher: MDPIISSN: Frequency: 4 issues/year

Vehicles is a pioneering open access journal published by MDPI since 2019, dedicated to advancing knowledge in the fields of Automotive Engineering and Electrical and Electronic Engineering. Based in Switzerland, the journal provides a valuable platform for researchers, professionals, and students to disseminate high-quality, peer-reviewed research across essential areas of vehicle technology and innovation. With an impressive Q2 ranking in both Automotive Engineering and Electrical and Electronic Engineering as of 2023, and a notable placement in the Scopus rankings (Rank #37/125 and #320/797, respectively), Vehicles plays a critical role in fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange within these fast-evolving disciplines. Through its commitment to Open Access, Vehicles ensures that cutting-edge research is accessible to a global audience, thereby contributing significantly to the collective understanding and development of sustainable transportation solutions. Situated at the crossroads of engineering innovation and practical application, Vehicles invites contributions that explore contemporary challenges and promote transformative advancements in the automotive sector.

TeMA-Journal of Land Use Mobility and Environment

Transforming knowledge into action for sustainable environments.
Publisher: UNIV STUDI NAPOLI FEDERICO II, DIPT PIANIFICAZIONE & SCIENZA TERRITORIOISSN: 1970-9889Frequency:

TeMA - Journal of Land Use Mobility and Environment is a distinguished open-access journal published by the University of Naples Federico II, specifically by the Department of Planning and Territorial Science. Since its inception in 2008, the journal has dedicated itself to advancing the field of land use, mobility, and environmental studies, providing a platform for innovative research that shapes urban planning and environmental management practices. With an ISSN 1970-9889 and E-ISSN 1970-9870, the journal is committed to offering high-quality, peer-reviewed articles that address critical issues impacting society. Although currently positioned in the lower percentiles of Scopus rankings across various categories, including Geography, Planning and Development and Environmental Science, it plays a vital role in disseminating knowledge that is essential for researchers, policy-makers, and practitioners in these disciplines. Nestled in the heart of Naples, Italy, at Piazzale Tecchio 80, TeMA invites submissions from scholars around the world, fostering a collaborative atmosphere that emphasizes the importance of sustainable land use and mobility in the contemporary environment.

Urbano

Navigating the Complexities of Urban Environments
Publisher: UNIV BIO-BIO, DEPT PLANIFICACION & DISENOISSN: 0717-3997Frequency: 2 issues/year

Urbano is a distinguished academic journal published by UNIV BIO-BIO, DEPT PLANIFICACION & DISENO in Chile, specializing in Urban Studies. With the ISSN 0717-3997 and E-ISSN 0718-3607, it has been committed to open-access publishing since 2000, aiming to disseminate vital research and insights that contribute to the dynamic field of urban planning and design. The journal's impressive trajectory includes acceptance into Scopus, featuring a 2023 ranking of #162 out of 279 in the Urban Studies category, placing it in the 42nd percentile. Urbano serves as a platform for innovative ideas and interdisciplinary approaches, inviting researchers, practitioners, and students to engage with high-quality content from 2016 to 2024. By addressing contemporary urban challenges, it not only enriches academic discourse but also actively supports the development of sustainable urban environments across Latin America and beyond.

TRANSPORTATION RESEARCH PART C-EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES

Shaping the Next Generation of Transportation Insights
Publisher: PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTDISSN: 0968-090XFrequency: 12 issues/year

TRANSPORTATION RESEARCH PART C - EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES is a leading journal dedicated to the exploration and dissemination of innovative solutions in the field of transportation. Published by PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD in the United Kingdom, this journal has been pivotal in advancing the understanding of emerging transportation technologies since its inception in 1993. With a robust impact across multiple disciplines, it proudly holds a Q1 status in key categories such as Automotive Engineering, Civil and Structural Engineering, and Computer Science Applications, underscoring its vital role in shaping research and development in these areas. Researchers and practitioners are encouraged to engage with its rich repository of knowledge, which includes rigorous peer-reviewed articles aimed at addressing contemporary challenges in the transportation sector. While it currently does not operate under an Open Access model, the journal remains an essential resource for professionals and scholars committed to the field. With an affiliation to the prestigious Scopus database, TRANSPORTATION RESEARCH PART C stands as a beacon of scholarly excellence, driving the future of transportation technologies.

Ciudad y Territorio-Estudios Territoriales-CyTET

Advancing Interdisciplinary Insights in Territorial Studies
Publisher: MINISTERIO FOMENTO, CENTRO PUBLICACIONESISSN: 1133-4762Frequency: 4 issues/year

Ciudad y Territorio-Estudios Territoriales-CyTET, published by the MINISTERIO FOMENTO, CENTRO PUBLICACIONES, is a premier journal dedicated to the interdisciplinary exploration of urban and regional studies. With an ISSN of 1133-4762, this Spanish journal serves as a vital platform for researchers and practitioners interested in the dynamics of geography, planning, and development. Recognized in the Q2 quartile for both Geography, Planning and Development and Urban Studies for 2023, CyTET represents a significant contribution to academic discourse, ranked at 145th in Urban Studies and 542nd in Geography, Planning and Development within the Scopus database. Notably, the journal’s converged issue years from 2014 to 2024 emphasize its ongoing commitment to staying current with the rapidly evolving challenges and innovations in urban environments. Although not Open Access, CyTET provides invaluable insights and research findings that are critical for professionals, scholars, and students aiming to enhance their understanding and impact in the realm of territorial studies.

TRANSPORTATION RESEARCH RECORD

Exploring the Future of Transportation Systems
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INCISSN: 0361-1981Frequency:

TRANSPORTATION RESEARCH RECORD is a premier journal published by SAGE PUBLICATIONS INC, focusing on the latest advancements and research in the fields of civil and structural engineering as well as mechanical engineering. Since its inception in 1974, this journal has become an essential platform for disseminating innovative methodologies, case studies, and comprehensive reviews that address critical issues in transportation systems and infrastructure. With a respectable Q2 ranking in both engineering categories as of 2023, it solidifies its position among reputable publications, catering to a diverse range of scholars, professionals, and students. The journal not only facilitates access to high-quality research but also plays a pivotal role in shaping policy and practice through its robust findings. For those invested in the engineering disciplines, particularly within the transportation domain, TRANSPORTATION RESEARCH RECORD is an invaluable resource, with a wide array of topics covered throughout converged years, from 1974 to 1990, and from 1993 to 2024, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of historical and contemporary challenges in transportation.

Frontiers in Built Environment

Advancing sustainable solutions for urban futures.
Publisher: FRONTIERS MEDIA SAISSN: Frequency: 1 issue/year

Frontiers in Built Environment, published by FRONTIERS MEDIA SA, is a highly regarded open-access journal that has established itself as a significant platform for cutting-edge research in the fields of building and construction, geography, planning and development, and urban studies. Since its inception in 2015, this journal has embraced a commitment to disseminating high-quality, peer-reviewed research, allowing researchers, professionals, and students to access pivotal findings and insights without financial barriers. With an impressive 2023 impact factor, it ranks in the Q1 tier for Urban Studies and is positioned within the Q2 tier for both Building and Construction and Geography, Planning and Development, demonstrating its influence and relevance in evolving urban and environmental challenges. Its rigorous indexing, exemplified by a strong Scopus ranking, reflects its contribution to the advancement of knowledge in these critical areas. With a clear dedication to fostering innovation and collaboration within the built environment sector, Frontiers in Built Environment is essential reading for those engaged in shaping sustainable urban futures.

Urban Policy and Research

Advancing Urban Knowledge for a Sustainable Future
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0811-1146Frequency: 4 issues/year

Urban Policy and Research is a leading academic journal dedicated to advancing the fields of urban studies and geography, planning, and development. Published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, the journal has been a vital resource since its inception in 1982 and continues to shape scholarly discourse up to 2024. With an impressive 2023 Scopus ranking that places it in the 70th percentile for Urban Studies and 63rd percentile for Geography, Planning and Development, it reflects a strong commitment to rigorous research and innovative insights. Although not an open-access journal, it provides valuable access options to support the dissemination of knowledge among researchers, professionals, and students. By engaging with a diverse range of topics, Urban Policy and Research serves as an essential platform for exploring contemporary urban challenges and fostering informed policymaking in an evolving global landscape.