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Urban Sci., Volume 9, Issue 11 (November 2025) – 2 articles

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24 pages, 948 KB  
Article
A Framework for Defining and Developing Capabilities for Operations and Maintenance of Infrastructure Assets
by Dejan Papič, Damjan Maletič and Robert Klinc
Urban Sci. 2025, 9(11), 436; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci9110436 (registering DOI) - 22 Oct 2025
Abstract
Infrastructure asset management faces major challenges in maintaining ageing assets while adapting to technological changes and budget constraints. This paper addresses the lack of a clear definition for “operations and maintenance (O&M) capability” in the context of infrastructure asset management. The authors conducted [...] Read more.
Infrastructure asset management faces major challenges in maintaining ageing assets while adapting to technological changes and budget constraints. This paper addresses the lack of a clear definition for “operations and maintenance (O&M) capability” in the context of infrastructure asset management. The authors conducted a systematic literature review extracting 13 capability definitions across multiple domains, followed by semi-structured interviews with 11 senior industry experts from diverse infrastructure sectors, analysing data through List–Group–Label methodology. The research resulted in a comprehensive yet practical definition of O&M capability and identified its key components through an expert-refined framework that balances comprehensiveness and simplicity. This definition provides practitioners and researchers with a common understanding that enables better adaptation of infrastructure to rapid technological change, better utilisation of data and a stronger focus on citizen needs. The framework enables cities and infrastructure operators to systematically assess, develop, and communicate their O&M capabilities, supporting standardised approaches to capability planning and performance measurement across smart city infrastructure projects. The framework creates a foundation for future research and practical applications in O&M and stimulates further development of approaches to build capabilities for smart city infrastructure. Full article
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42 pages, 4487 KB  
Article
Urban Sustainability Through Traditional Architecture: A New Combo of Culture, Energy Efficiency and Resilience in Morocco
by Mohamed Ouazzani Ibrahimi, Fatima Zohra Gargab, Tarik Kousksou and Abdelmajid Jamil
Urban Sci. 2025, 9(11), 435; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci9110435 - 22 Oct 2025
Abstract
The Moroccan Ryad, a cherished architectural treasure in North Africa, symbolizes cultural richness and architectural legacy. This paper advocates an inventive strategy to preserve and rejuvenate the Ryad as an energy-efficient model, intertwining modern sustainability principles. Employing a multidisciplinary approach, this study delves [...] Read more.
The Moroccan Ryad, a cherished architectural treasure in North Africa, symbolizes cultural richness and architectural legacy. This paper advocates an inventive strategy to preserve and rejuvenate the Ryad as an energy-efficient model, intertwining modern sustainability principles. Employing a multidisciplinary approach, this study delves into the fusion of traditional Ryad design with contemporary sustainability, tackling energy efficiency, resource conservation, and cultural heritage challenges. Examining historical construction methods, material choices, and spatial arrangements alongside sustainable building practices, this paper showcases case studies of newly constructed sustainable Ryads. These examples spotlight strategies like passive solar design, renewable energy incorporation, water conservation, and local material use, augmenting energy performance while fostering cultural continuity through eco-friendly materials and traditional craftsmanship. This research also explores the social and economic impacts of this sustainable Ryad model, including its potential to boost tourism, generate employment, and engage communities. Additionally, it addresses the role of public policy in supporting sustainable practices for preserving Moroccan cultural heritage. By amalgamating culture, sustainability, and energy efficiency, this paper envisions a new role for the Moroccan Ryad, positioning it not only as a guardian of heritage but also as a symbol of environmentally responsible architecture—a model applicable to culturally rich regions globally. Full article
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