My central philosophy for a smart city is to focus on vibrancy over occupancy by creating problems that encourage citizens to build their own solutions. Original Roundabouts are amazing as they broadly have only one rule: give way to the right (for those of us who drive on the left). The rule is enhanced with best practices such as slow down on the approach, remain vigilant and aware, look twice, think bike and don’t block. Traffic lights are awesome as they can learn and improve on the fly. There are many rules for delivering the light sequence delays as data from many other sensors affect and effect what is happening in real time to the traffic. Analysis, algorithms and new data can be all active in your frustration as to why the lights remain red when the road is clear – someone else knows better. When considering these two incredible traffic control mechanisms you could apply the learning to risk, management, innovation, government, our own personal attitude, smart city
