Understanding the relationship between firms’ level of knowledge on the smart city concept and the size of the firm – an empirical study

Purpose: On the one hand, companies become consumers of a smart city, but on the other, they are also co-creators and/or initiators of new goals. The implementation of the smart city concept requires specific knowledge, especially from businesses, who are active participants in the process. The aim of the paper is to gain new knowledge about the relationship between firms’ level of knowledge on the smart city concept and the size of the company. Design/methodology/approach: The survey was carried out in 2021 using the CATI, CAWI interview method on a random sample of 217 companies in the West Pomeranian region in the Republic of Poland. The Chi-square test for independence and the Kruskal-Wallis test were conducted. Findings: A Kruskal-Wallis H test revealed no statistically significant difference in the level of smart city knowledge across the five analyzed groups based on company size. The study results indicate no significant association between company size and the four selected statements regarding smart city concept. The presented data could be the basis for the preparation of an appropriate strategy for sustainable operation, taking into account the important factor, which is people, including entrepreneurs. Research limitations/implications: The authors suggest conducting the same analysis with a larger sample size to generalize the phenomena. The authors believe that it is worth examining the level of knowledge not only of companies from the West Pomeranian voivodeship, but also from all over Poland, which may precisely illustrate the level of understanding of the smart city concept. Practical implications: Research results are important not only for regional policymakers but also for researchers interested in the field of strategic smart city development. Due to changes taking place in the perception of the city’s role, the concept of a smart and sustainable city is becoming increasingly important not only for city authorities but also for businesses. Social implications: The implementation of the smart city concept requires conscious and thoughtful steps, but also created in cooperation with all participants, especially residents and businesses, who are active participants in the process. Originality/value: Addressing a research gap in association between company size and the knowledge about the smart city concept, this study sought to provide valuable insights.