The mWatch Europe 2006 reveals and compares the state of art in 21 European cities and regions from Helsinki in the north to Barcelona in the south. The Mobile Readiness Index (MRI) is designed to quantify the innovative potential and critical actions for places to become fruitful test-beds for user-driven mobile solutions in cities and regions across Europe. For the first time decision-makers have a comparative framework which can influence local, regional, national and European policymaking.

The Kaleidoscope 2006 showcases 80 mobile applications. Taken together, the Kaleidoscope of Innovative Projects offers a comprehensive picture of what currently takes place in the European “mobility market”. Focus is given to user-driven projects in operation today.

The mWatch Europe 2006 also contains specific policy recommendations. For example, the Living Labs Europe network of cities and regions could serve as an effective model for involving lead users and user communities in the early design, prototyping and development of mobile applications. Innovations that are already in demand and well-tested among lead users, when they reach the market, are likely to become commercially successful. One policy recommendation is to strengthen public support to local and regional innovation environments across the continent.

Christer Asplund
T: +46 707.822.650
PO Box 135
DK-1004 Copenhagen
Denmark
msolutions@livinglabs-europe.com