Managed Service Providers (MSPs) for digital transformation for smart cities
Managed service providers (MSPs) are critical in digital transformation for smart cities. They ensure a good integration of technology-driven solutions. But how can we optimise the added value to the client? This blog post explains why and how they add value to smart cities.
Objective of Managed Service Provider (MSP)
Managed Service Provider (MSP) for smart cities is a specialised collaborator for partnerships with local authorities, stakeholders and technology vendors. Their primary objective is:
Weave technology into (urban) services to deliver hardware and software, such as networking, software applications, infrastructure, security, and data centre (hosting).
Support the client to ensure the technology adds value to their client's ambitions and ongoing business services.
Pure-play technology managed services provider
MSPs can have different objectives – areas of focus - to deliver new technologies to their clients; see link and link. Our consultants commonly work for smart cities as a pure-play technology MSP. This is because many different technology vendors provide IT solutions for smart cities, making it easier for real estate authorities or municipalities to compare technologies and vendors on their performance and pricing structure. The vendors need to have interoperable compatibilities with other data sources to pump the data around the different departments or stakeholders.
What kind of technology domains do MSPs integrate that are relevant for smart cities?
These technological domains encompass Internet of Things (IoT) devices, data analytics, automation systems, and more. MSPs are architects that orchestrate these interventions and map how the client can drive that change. For examples of how to do that, see my blog on vision digitisation and business process references here.
Challenges with MSPs if they work siloed
Soyata et al. (2018) pointed out many MSPs don ’t maximise their added value. A common pitfall is that the implementation of technologies is siloed. Limiting the potential new technologies can bring to other departments like emergency response or asset management, which will also find the latest helpful technology.
Bridging the business gap and breaking the silo
It is the goal of the MSP to bridge this business gap. And look a little further than just implementing a new technology that fits within the functional purpose the client has described.
Examples, where silos have been broken using smart technologies are the use case of Italian and Dutch railways, see my blog and project references. Both companies use smart technology used by operational departments, station asset managers and policymakers to improve train station safety and capacity performance.
Why are MSPs significant for smart cities?
The significance of an MSP in any smart city venture is as indisputable as the need for visionary city planning. They are the orchestrators of a symphony where technology and urban life harmonise. The expertise they contribute ensures that the often-complex technological solutions align with the city's goals and existing infrastructure.
What are the key deliverables for an MSP?
Strategic Infrastructure Blueprint: MSPs kickstart their engagement by assessing the city's existing infrastructure. This forms the start for a plan encompassing the strategic deployment of IoT devices, sensors, and robust communication networks.
Harvesting Insights through Data Management: Data emerges as the lifeblood of a smart city. MSPs orchestrate the establishment of sophisticated data management frameworks and data hygiene while collecting information to insights that steer informed decision-making.
Empowering Automation and Optimization: In their pursuit of efficiency, MSPs introduce the symphony of automation. Through carefully crafted solutions, they streamline city processes such as safety, traffic management, waste disposal, and energy consumption, a virtuoso performance that slashes resource wastage and elevates efficiency.
Enabling Citizen and Stakeholder Engagement: Smart cities thrive on citizen and stakeholder participation. MSPs digital platforms that encourage citizens to interact with city authorities, voice concerns, and partake in crucial decisions. This digital dialogue nurtures a sense of community and shared ownership.
Sentinels of Cybersecurity: MSPs reinforce the city's cybersecurity of sensitive data. Their vigilance ensures the sanctity of data, thwarting cyber threats and preserving the integrity of city systems.
Conclusion about MSPs for smart cities
To conclude, Managed Service Providers (MSPs) is a service to support municipalities and real estate authorities to drive their digital ambition. By weaving their expertise, MSPs hold the key to unlocking an intelligent city's boundless potential and guiding your city's transformation to your aspirations.
Get in touch with smart city consultants
For a partner that envisions the smart city horizon alongside you, contact Smart City Consultants. Together, let's script your city's journey to lead in innovation and add value to your business.