Can digital technologies for city-making engage its users to build parklets in Vienna? - Citizen participation in the context of the platform city

This article presents the results of research conducted to observe the impact of digital tools on citizen engagement. Parklets (temporary constructions in public space) in Vienna were selected for the research as a case study. The following digital tools for city-making were developed to carry out the experiment: basic information, a parklet potential map, a design tool, and a form to request the necessary permits. The tools were advertised among citizens’ organizations and through social media channels. Three methods were used to collect data: automated data collection, a survey, and expert interviews. The results show that technology has limitations in motivating citizens to build parklets. While the tools could inform people about the possibilities in the city, other aspects, such as previous engagement, play an essential role in the perception of new tools and their potential adoption.