Smart city needs smart human resources management

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (I 4.0.) spurred the evolution of both smart businesses and smart organizations. The latter have been borne out of advances in information and communication technology (ICT) and its subsequent impact on organizational and socio-economic innovation. ICT-enhanced human resource practices, aka smart human resource management 4.0 (SHR 4.0.) are a piece and parcel of this process, in that SHR 4.0 leverages digital technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), big data, and artificial intelligence (AI) to manage the relationship among and with employees. Nevertheless, an innovative approach focused on digital-centered management may lead to an overemphasis on technology rather than on the human-factor. In this sense, if smart cities are to retain their “smartness,” they need to be populated by smart organizations, that while following the precepts of SHR 4.0. emphasize the salience of talent, skills, career development, organizational well-being, and creativity. Against this backdrop, through a descriptive literature review, this chapter sheds light on SHR 4.0., including the challenges and opportunities that come along. It is argued that SHR 4.0. may generate value for both the city and the community by promoting sustainable behaviors. These behaviors are crucial in tackling the primary challenges currently confronted by smart cities and the world at large.