Fraunhofer Institute for Experimental Software Engineering IESEThe smart city and region of the future are based on intelligently networked systems in which technology and data are used specifically for the common good. They enable efficient, service-oriented administration and lay the foundation for a new quality of public services. Digital solutions help to sustainably improve the quality of life for everyone. At the same time, they promote open, cooperative collaboration between administration, business, science, and civil society. The intelligent use of technologies supports the forward-looking, resilient development of infrastructure, mobility, energy, and health through data-based decision-making. Transparency, participation, and inclusion are at the heart of this approach: people play an active role in shaping the future, with technology serving as a tool. The result is a sustainable, livable environment that is ecologically, socially, and economically balanced – for current and future generations.
Smart City Design
– Creating livable cities and regions
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Your research partner for the digital transformation of the public sector
Neutral partner at all administrative levels
We are an independent, scientific partner for federal, state, and local governments and companies in the public sector. We provide strategic and technology-neutral support throughout transformation processes toward digital cities and regions. Our neutral role allows us to build trust among all parties involved. We support decision-making in a fact-based, public-interest-oriented, and transparent manner.
Networked in Germany's smart city community
Our department is part of a strong network of model projects, public authorities, research institutions, and companies. In national consortia, standardization processes, and strategy initiatives (from DIN SPEC to research associations), we actively help shape the framework conditions for digitalization in the public sector. These connections enable us to bring current trends, best practices, and interdisciplinary exchange to every project. Public actors benefit directly from pooled knowledge and intensive networking within the German smart city landscape.
Research for digital public services
Digital public services are at the heart of our department's research work. The aim is to use digital innovations to make public services reliable, efficient, and accessible – especially in structurally weak regions. Our research serves as a bridge between social needs, technological progress, and political control.
Deep understanding of municipal structures and processes
Thanks to our involvement in numerous projects, we are familiar with the operational, political, and organizational realities in cities, municipalities, and counties. We use this knowledge in a targeted manner to develop viable strategies and solutions – together with public administrations and their partners. This results in realistic concepts that are both feasible and sustainable.
Technological expertise in AI, IT security, and software engineering
As part of Fraunhofer IESE, we contribute expertise from across the institute to smart city projects, including artificial intelligence, IT security, and software architecture. This know-how is tailored specifically to the requirements of the public sector. The result is secure, sustainable, and powerful solutions for digital administration and infrastructure.
Fraunhofer IESE was a key partner in organizing the first scientific conference on smart cities, the specialist conference “Interdisciplinary Perspectives on the Smart City” (IPSC). Together with scientists from German-speaking countries, we took a research perspective on German smart cities for the first time in 2024. You can find out more about the conference here. If you are interested in a professional exchange, please contact Dr. Matthias Berg.
Our services for you
Sociotechnical systems
For digital tools to reach their full potential in cities, villages, or organizations, more than just good technology is needed. We create the right conditions for sustainable and effective use.
Supporting the implementation of digital transformation
Our process support includes operational implementation and the development of viable operating concepts for long-term operation. We review the impact and effectiveness of measures, identify potential for optimization, and ensure quality.
Accompanying research, evaluation, and studies
The successful implementation of digitization projects requires more than just technology: it requires a in-depth understanding of local contexts and the needs of local people, as well as reliable data and scientifically sound decision-making bases.
Knowledge transfer and expertise development
Our team puts the latest expertise into practice, enabling knowledge transfer for local authorities and businesses. Through active participation in consortia, model projects, and standardization processes, the latest findings are incorporated directly into our work.
Smart city concepts and digitization strategies
We develop tailor-made digitization strategies with all stakeholders: from the administration to citizens to partners. This results in viable solutions that create acceptance and have a long-term impact.
We support you in overcoming your challenges
We develop customized solutions, work with state-of-the-art technology, and are independent and neutral.
Benefit from our experience!