Spatial Dimensions of Digitalisation

Digitalisation is a major catalyst for change in cities, municipalities, and regions in the early 21st century. Its impact extends far beyond broadband expansion, as it transforms life styles, usage patterns and business models, policy and planning processes, administrative procedures, and forms of participation. The ÖREK partnership ‘Spatial Dimensions of Digitalisation’ addressed questions pertaining to (socio)spatial interactions and the need for intervention by spatial and urban development stakeholders. The partnership involved a process of dialogue and knowledge transfer with representatives of Austrian ministries (former BMLRT, BMK, BMDW), the federal states, the Austrian Association of Cities and Towns and the Austrian Association of Municipalities. Set during the Covid19 pandemic, a series of online workshops and three virtual public symposia were held. The results of the ÖREK partnership have been published in the ÖROK publication series 213. Three indepth studies examined the extent to which digitalisation is contributing to changes in traffic volumes, the location of households and businesses, and the use and quality of public spaces. Guidelines and planning recommendations highlight possible approaches and requirements for municipalities, cities and regions. Most importantly, the publication stresses that digital transformation must be seen as a process that can be shaped. Municipalities and cities are called upon to harness its potential for energy and resourceefficient spatial development, to manage it for the public good and to avoid undesirable side effects.