In this episode, we spoke with Lawrence Eta, former CTO of the City of Toronto and a global digital transformation leader. Now advising the Royal Commission for AlUla, Lawrence shares lessons from leading large-scale public sector innovation and shaping inclusive, future-ready smart cities.

Key Insights:

• Smart governance enables smart cities: Success depends more on leadership, architecture, and inclusive policy than on technology alone.

• The 5S framework drives decision-making: Stability, scalability, solution integration, security, and sustainability help prioritize city tech projects.

• Public-private partnerships expand access: Toronto’s free community internet project shows how tech can close affordability gaps, not just improve infrastructure.

• Community voice builds trust: Toronto’s digital strategy was shaped by town halls and diverse stakeholder input, ensuring transparency and relevance.

• Scaling innovation requires cultural change: Empowering staff at all levels with clear processes and leadership sponsorship is key to sustainable adoption.

IoT ONE database: https://www.iotone.com/case-studies

Industrial IoT Spotlight podcast is produced by Asia Growth Partners (AGP): https://asiagrowthpartners.com/

EP 218 - Innovating Urban Living: Lawrence Eta on Digital Solutions for Modern Cities