ACCEPTANCE OF INTERNET OF THINGS TECHNOLOGIES IN SMART CITIES

Renata Walczak's monograph is a fascinating journey through the world of smart cities and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. This book, prepared for the City of Płock, analyzes the factors determining the acceptance of solutions using IoT sensors as an element conditioning universal design. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the future of cities and the role of technology in their development.

• Comprehensive analysis of the acceptance of IoT technologies in cities
• Social research among the residents of Płock
• Practical recommendations for city authorities
• Statistical model explaining key variables
• Insight into the concerns of residents regarding data security
• Discussion of universal design in the context of IoT

The author, Renata Walczak, conducted a research project for the City of Płock, which aims to transform the city into a smart center. The aim of the study was to identify the factors influencing the acceptance of IoT technologies by residents, especially in the context of concerns about data security and the functioning of the city. The authorities of Płock, aware of these concerns, decided to conduct a social study to better understand the needs and reservations of residents.

In 2021, a survey was conducted among 150 residents of Płock, whose structure was consistent with the population structure of the city in terms of age and gender. The analysis of the survey data included descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and the construction and analysis of a structural model. The results of the study show that society understands the needs of people with disabilities and supports the adaptation of urban space for all residents. Respondents understand that data from IoT devices can be used for universal design purposes, and they support it.

Despite assurances that data is collected anonymously, respondents fear for the security of themselves and their data. In the structural model, variables such as empathy, trust in technology, trust in the city authorities, acceptance of data collection by IoT devices, acceptance of IoT technology, security and perceived usefulness of IoT technology were used. This model made it possible to explain 86% of the variance, with perceived security being the most important variable influencing the remaining variables. This book is a valuable source of knowledge for anyone interested in the development of smart cities and the role of technology in shaping urban space.

The Publishing House of the Warsaw University of Technology presents a monograph that is not only a research report, but also an inspiration for further actions to create cities that are friendly and accessible to all. This publication, with 132 pages, in the format of 236x162 mm, in paperback, is available to a wide audience interested in the subject of smart cities and IoT technologies.