Topic VII: Solving Problems in Modern Cities

Solving Problems in Modern Cities

Julian Ong

Modern cities hum with life, offering unparalleled opportunities and experiences. Yet, beneath the gleaming skyscrapers and bustling streets lie complex challenges – wicked problems – that defy simple solutions. These problems are deeply interconnected, constantly evolving, and often lack a clear-cut "right" answer (Owens, 2020). 

Through user surveys and interviews, common themes emerge. Imagine Sarah, a young professional living in Kuala Lumpur. Her commute is a daily battle – traffic congestion and unreliable public transport eat into her time and energy. This experience is intrinsically linked to air pollution, another significant concern for Sarah and her health-conscious community. 

Let's storyboard Sarah's experience. She wakes up to hazy skies, a grim reminder of the city's air quality woes. The overflowing bus stand adds to her frustration. Stuck in traffic, the fumes exacerbate her asthma, a constant reminder of the interconnectedness of these problems. 

So, what can be done? There's no silver bullet. However, systems thinking – considering the problem from various angles – offers a framework. Encouraging Sarah and others to cycle or use electric vehicles could address traffic congestion and air pollution simultaneously. Additionally, investing in a reliable and efficient public transport system would provide a sustainable alternative, further reducing emissions. 

Wicked problems demand collaborative solutions. City planners, policymakers, residents, and businesses must work together. By fostering open communication and prioritizing people-centric design, we can transform our cities into thriving ecosystems where Sarah, and everyone else, can breathe easy and get around efficiently. As  mentioned in a report by the Sustainable Cities Collective, "Social-ecological systems and utility systems thinking are crucial for addressing wicked problems" (2018).

Citizen participation and user research are vital tools to understand the true impact of these problems. By acknowledging the complexity of wicked problems and working together, we can create a future where modern cities are not just places to live, but vibrant spaces where everyone thrives. 


References: 

Owens, D. (2020, August 17). UX Case Study: Wicked Problems. Medium: https://medium.com/@denizowens/ux-case-study-wicked-problems-a7bddcf6dfa2

Sustainable Cities Collective. (2018, November 19). Sustainable Cities Collective: Social-ecological systems and utility systems thinking. Smart Cities Dive. https://www.smartcitiesdive.com/

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