Progress of urban informatics in urban planning research, education, and practice

Abstract Urban informatics has emerged as a critical interdisciplinary field, responding to the rapid technological advancements in information technology and playing a pivotal role in the transformation and planning of smart cities. This paper provides an in-depth examination of the evolution of urban informatics, research, and educational facets, underscoring its significance in addressing the complexities of urban challenges. It begins with a historical perspective on integrating informatics with urban planning, charting the development of urban informatics into a specialized discipline. The theoretical underpinnings of urban informatics are explored, tracing its progression from technology-driven initiatives to a field bolstered by urban science theory. The paper delves into the core directions of urban informatics, including urban sensing, big data, analytics, and planning applications, highlighting the synergistic relationship between technological innovation and urban growth. An assessment of the research and progress in urban informatics is presented, focusing on the contributions of international research institutions and the influence of urban informatics on practical planning. The educational landscape is also examined, reflecting the rise of interdisciplinary programs and the burgeoning demand for expertise in this domain. The paper concludes by emphasizing the transformative potential of urban informatics as a planning tool and its crucial role in shaping the trajectory of urban development.