Abstract:
Purpose: The rapid pace of urbanization, particularly in developing countries like Sri
Lanka, has placed significant pressure on existing infrastructure, transportation
systems, and public services. The purpose of this study is to explore the integration of
Internet of Things (IoT) technologies as a solution to infrastructure, transportation,
and public service challenges within the context of smart city development in Sri
Lanka.
Design/methodology/approach: This research combines a comprehensive literature
review, in-depth case studies, and primary data analysis collected from stakeholders,
including city planners, government officials, IoT experts, and citizens, to identify key
opportunities and challenges in implementing IoT solutions within urban
environments.
Findings: The results reveal a significant positive relationship between IoT awareness
and perceived benefits, which underlines the need to enhance the public’s awareness
to enhance the perceived value of IoT applications. But privacy and security issues
greatly limit the adoption and integration of IoT technologies, which shows the need
to address these factors to enhance the level of acceptance. The study also shows that
regulatory and infrastructure readiness plays an important moderating role, increasing
the likelihood of IoT adoption even in contexts with high awareness. Furthermore,
perceived benefits have been shown to be a strong predictor of public support for IoT
driven smart city initiatives, whereas clear regulatory guidelines significantly increase
public trust in these technologies.
Practical implications: The research contributes valuable insights into the socio
economic, environmental, and ethical implications of widespread IoT integration,
offering actionable recommendations for policymakers, city planners, and
stakeholders. These guidelines are designed to facilitate the effective deployment and
management of IoT in smart cities, ensuring sustainable urban development and
improved quality of life for citizens.
Originality value: This study improves understanding of IoT's socioeconomic,
environmental, and ethical implications, addressing issues such as privacy, security,
and regulation.
