The role of a mobile operator in the enablement of responsible consumption in smart residential communities

Abstract

The fifth generation of mobile networks (5G) gives mobile operators the possibility of enabling the transformation of the different industries and society at large. To seize such an opportunity, operators need to make different partnerships and take an active part in or even initiate the creation of new ecosystems. This paper portrays the potential role of mobile operators in the new, smart residential communities. It outlines the contribution of the different Internet of Things (IoT) applications, enabled by 5G, in resolving urban challenges. The special focus is put on „smart living” services related to responsible consumption. The paper describes the operator’s business model for such a scenario and the necessary technical and organizational prerequisites for it. As the business model and the business ecosystem are tightly interdependent, the paper also addresses the ecosystem creation, main interactions among the key actors, and the value created for each participant and the whole society.