ABSTRACT
This chapter explores and develops the social inclusion concept in the context of smart cities with the aim of re-conceptualizing inclusion for 21st-century urban environments. Aspects and benefits of innovative ICT enabled services and social inclusion are examined in contemporary urban spaces, along with emerging forms and attributes. Using a case study approach, the research design included qualitative data collection through in-depth interviews. In parallel with this study, anecdotal evidence was gathered from people across the city through individual and group discussions, enabling further analysis, comparison, and triangulation of data. Findings focus on the interplay of people, technologies, and urban space where usability and appropriation are associated with identity and urbanizing. This chapter contributes to the research literature across multiple domains, introduces and theorizes ambient inclusion, and operationalizes an ambient inclusion framework for the exploration of innovative ICT-enabled spaces, services, and designs in smart cities.
