A review on worldwide urban observatory systems' data analytics themes: lessons learned for Malaysia Urban Observatory (MUO)

Abstract

The application of data analytics in urban governance is crucial in addressing municipal issues. However, there are limited sources to review and discuss research related to urban observatories, which is one of the monitoring systems implemented in an urban area. This study aims to review existing urban observatory systems around the world to understand the pattern of data analytic themes, the analysis involved and types of the data. A total of 30 urban observatories were used as secondary data as an inductive analysis of thematic content using NVIVO 12 Plus. Environmental, economic, social, physical, and global agenda are the five key data analytic themes. The finding of the study is that environmental and social data analytics were the most commonly used themes in the 30 UOs surveyed. Also, the UO system developers focused on GIS (Geographic Information System) data relating to the physical environment and land cover. While efforts are being made to improve spatial data, in advanced analysis, however, data modelling and prediction/forecasts are still lacking. In conclusion, examining existing urban observatory systems are critical to the Malaysia Urban Observatory's development. Later, MUO will assist Malaysia in tracking the trajectory of urban development and well-being of its citizens.