New blueprints may help diagnose challenges faced by cities

Scientists have developed a blueprints for cities around the world that could help policy makers take more effective actions to boost the quality of life for residents in countries like India.
Researchers from the University of Birmingham in the UK used a wide range of data and evidence used by city leaders to inform policy combined with an analysis of 248 datasets - identifying the challenges facing Birmingham.
Project leaders are already looking at how the work might be applied in countries like India, Brazil and South Africa.
Scientists examined datasets reflecting areas where there is a lack of communication on policy.

The study uses these datasets to identify the integrated nature or complexity of the challenges faced in the city of Birmingham in the UK.
Researchers analysed data and discovered a unique nexus of issues set within the context of Birmingham's known governance and leadership challenges.

"It's vital to develop a diagnostic approach to identifying urban challenges before creating suitable policy," said John Bryson, Professor at University of Birmingham.
Without diagnosis of the challenges facing a city like Birmingham, the impact of actions aimed at boosting citizens' quality of life is limited.
"We believe our efforts can make a significant contribution to helping Birmingham and other world cities meet the needs of their citizens," said

Urban services and systems covered by the project include areas such as education, health, welfare, cultural heritage, governance and ecosystem services.
They also encompass 'hard infrastructure' services such as energy, water, sanitation, waste and transport.
Researchers are particularly interested in enabling greater influence and involvement by the people, city residents, who use the services in shaping how they are delivered.