Ron Gifford's (boringly titled) Blog

I'm off to New York City this morning to participate in IBM's "SmarterCities Forum."  IBM Chairman and CEO Samuel Palmisano has invited folks from the private, public and nonprofit sectors to join him for two days "to explore new approaches to regional partnerships, identify roadblocks, evaluate frameworks for investment and review the tools that are helping our cities meet 21st century realities." 

That should keep us busy for the next couple of days.

We'll cover this ground in six sessions:

1. A Planet of Smarter Cities -- why cities will become the focal point for economic and population growth around the world.
2. A Vision for Smarter Cities -- how innovation will shape the new vision of dynamic cities.
3. What It Takes To Build Smarter Cities -- breakout sessions on transportation, education, energy, public safety and government services.
4. Culture and the Smarter City -- why culture is the difference between a vibrant and a stagnant community.
5. Seizing the Opportunity -- best practices from around the country.
6. The Leadership Challenge -- how can we lead and manage change in our cities?

I'm looking forward to meeting people from all over the country, and I'll share their thoughts with you when I get back.  Until then, look for me on Twitter as I tweet my way through the next two days.  @RDGifford.