Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this dissertation is to bridge the gap of missing public–privatepartnership (PPP) research in the field of smart-featured urban development by
formulating an integrated framework for Smart City-PPPs with the hope of best utilizing
collaborative efforts, public input, and democratic deliberation and channeling public and
private competence through new contractual and institutional mechanisms that navigate
and incentivize the creation of desired outcomes to deliver aspirations of sustainable
smart cities and communities. The findings from this exploratory research sought to
maximize synergies and opportunities between the smart city approach and PPPs and
offer meaningful policy implications that can strengthen Smart City-PPP mechanisms at
the local level and their impact on society.
Theoretical Framework. This research is based on citizen-centered collaborative public
management (Cooper et al., 2006) and the theory of public value (Moore, 1995). The
framework supported the strategic planning of Smart City-PPPs while leveraging the
effective use of citizen-centered, citizen-engagement approaches and public value
management.
Methodology. The research method was based upon a case study as the most suitable and
fruitful way to exchange knowledge and unearth unique, context-dependent findings.
This study conducted a thorough analysis of existing and consolidated solutions provided
by a specific Smart City-PPP practice that benchmarks best practices.
Findings. The findings of the study affirmed that the proposed integrated Smart City-PPP
framework is a suitable reference and self-aware model that allows stakeholders to
identify the collective objectives in smart city projects; enhance financial, technological,
and managerial competencies relevant to project operation; and create legitimacy.
Preliminary results of the study presented that given the financial and technical
competence of private partners, the major achievements can be navigated by local
authorities’ positive influence and citizens’ decisive role in the decision making and
solution finding.
Conclusions and Recommendations. The results provided by the study indicate that
policy makers should recognize that sustainable cities and communities (Sustainable
Development Goal [SDG] 11) result from a citizen-centered collaboration and collective
value-creation process in urban transformations. The study suggested a collaborative
mechanism with social inclusion and democratic deliberation to unleash the potential and
acceptability of private partnerships.