Social Media as a People Sensing for the City Government in Smart Cities Context

Abstract

Social media have a huge impact on different areas of modern life. In smart city context, they can be used as a tool for enhancing dialogue between citizens and municipalities. Based on present research, empirical evidence is provided on insufficient use of social media capabilities. Relationship between smart cities and social media power is examined through study on the example of Varna municipality. An analysis of city government presence in social media was conducted. Through online questionnaire the citizens’ attitude towards smart city concept was studied. Suggestions for improving the communication between citizens and municipal administration of Varna are given.