In September 2016, Eindhoven had a first: the launch of the very first CBS Urban Data Centre (UDC). The collaboration with Statistics Netherlands (CBS) is in keeping with Eindhoven’s ambition to develop into a smart society, which is a city that uses the power of technology and design for its inhabitants in the best possible way. Now, two years later, it is time to look back together with the municipality and with CBS to see what has been accomplished so far.

The first UDC was off to a somewhat hesitant start. Rianne van Lomm, Integral Security Manager of UDC Eindhoven: ‘It took some time to find what the value was of our collaboration. As the municipality and CBS are two different types of organisations, we first had to get to know each other. Bringing together offer and demand was challenging. Eventually, we went into more depth and this strategic exploration enabled us to get off to a flying start.’ Niky van Geffen represents CBS as policy coordinator of UDC Eindhoven. ‘Mutual understanding and trust are vital. We have put great effort into this on both ends.’

Read the full story at cbs.nl.