Network Theory

Connected Cities

At AOS we have been researching and applying the emerging science of networks to understand why some urban environments are more successful than others. For example, why are some places more vibrant economically? Why do some cities seem to generate new businesses and ideas, while others are always followers rather than trend setters? It is not only for economic outcomes that this matters; it also affects social, cultural and- vitally- environmental outcomes.

So what is a successful network when it comes to a city? It turns out that “success” can be measured in terms of the number of opportunities for “hubs” – places for meeting, exchanges, observation, serendipitous encounters: what we call the “bump factor” in an urban environment.

Yes, mobile communication and social media do have a complementary role to play; social networking and online connections have changed the way we interact in cyber-space, new virtual hubs are created: the most connected people, organizations or topics.

http://www.theatlanticcities.com/technology/2013/05/how-twitter-changing-geography-communication/5601/

Despite the rise in virtual connections, all evidence appears to be this does more to increase the demand for physical hubs rather than replace them with virtual ones.

An example of an urban environment with poor network capability is the Palm Island of Dubai. A dramatic image from the air, it is no doubt a successful part of Dubai’s new image. “On the ground” however it’s a different story – there is no sense of “island” about it, and it is expressed as a series of very long streets with almost identical buildings lining each. There are few hubs, no interconnections and everyone has to travel long distances to go anywhere. This network’s “signature” is simplicity itself – like a bare leafed tree, not surprising really since its modeled on one.

We wouldn’t be the first to say this is not a good model for a city:

Christopher Alexander A City Is Not A Tree

http://www.abc.polimi.it/fileadmin/docenti/TEPAC/2012/FONTANA/A_City_is_not_a_Tree.pdf

Did you know that the Italian city of Venice fits neatly within the boundaries of the Palm? It’s a slightly unfair comparison, perhaps, but the complexity, density and sheer number of hubs and links in Venice is in stark contrast to the simplicity of the Palm. Could it have been any different? Stay tuned for our re-design proposal of the Palm.

http://mapfrappe.com/?show=10398

A great explanation of the science behind networks, hubs and links can be found here …

How Kevin Bacon Cured Cancer

http://www.abc.net.au/tv/guide/netw/200810/programs/DO0719H001D28102008T203000.htm