In our second episode of our IMAGINE the Citiverse special series, we feature Roland van der Heijden, Programme Manager of the Rotterdam Cityverse, and Alfredo Viglienzoni, ICT expert for the Municipality of Genova.

The discussion explores the role of digital transformation in shaping the cities of the future, focusing on resilience, citizen engagement, and digital inclusion. Roland shares insights on Rotterdam’s efforts to develop a citywide digital infrastructure and the challenges of integrating digital and physical urban spaces. Alfredo highlights Genova’s progress in digitisation, particularly in ensuring accessibility for all citizens, including the elderly and vulnerable populations. The conversation delves into the evolving concept of the “Citiverse” and how technology can enhance urban life while maintaining human-centred values.

Don't miss this exciting lead-up to the IMAGINE 2025 event in Tampere, Finland, where cities and innovators will collaborate to shape the Citiverse!

Overview of the episode:

[00:02:17] Teaser Question: “Imagine you have one superpower to enhance your work. What would it be and why?”

[00:04:10] Our guest’s background: Roland van der Heijden shares his journey from city planning to digital transformation in Rotterdam, followed by Alfredo Viglienzoni’s diverse career from physics to ICT leadership in Genoa.

[00:12:28] Success stories: Roland highlights Rotterdam’s vision for digital transformation and its open urban data platform, while Alfredo shares Genoa’s progress in streamlining municipal ICT systems and citizen services.

[00:17:53] Rotterdam’s challenge: Enhancing resilience to water-related risks through digital twin technology and data-driven safety measures.

[00:20:44] Genoa’s challenge: Ensuring digital inclusion for the elderly, people with disabilities, and marginalised groups in an increasingly digitised city.

[00:27:51] What’s missing? Discussion on the tools and innovations needed to accelerate digital transformation while maintaining human-centred values.

[00:34:50] Social and digital shifts: How technology is changing the way people interact, from neighbourhood networks to city-wide engagement.

[00:37:04] Podcast Segment - “Freaky Friday”: Guests switch roles to offer solutions for each other’s city challenges.

[00:41:06] Ending Question: “To you, what is a Smart City?” – Guests share their perspectives on leveraging technology for better urban living.

[00:44:35] Closing remarks: Invitation to the Imagine 2025 event in Tampere, Finland.

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