Cities that are more connected, efficient, and sustainable are no longer a distant dream. The fusion of new technologies with the Internet of Things is driving rapid transformations in homes, streets, and workplaces. To dissect this shift and offer practical insights for the years ahead, Futuribles—an event organized by EL PERIÓDICO in collaboration with Telefónica and CaixaBank—gathered experts and institutions to explore how digital forces reshape society. The consensus among speakers and researchers is clear: technology acts as a catalyst for change, and active participation by people accelerates social progress. (Source: event program and participant remarks)
“We are witnessing a genuine revolution, a pivotal moment redefining personal, social, and business relationships,” summarized Albert Sáez, the director of EL PERIÓDICO. He underscored that digitalization sits at the core of building the future. The day opened at the Hotel Gallery in Barcelona, with Ester Manzano, Director General of Digital Services and Citizen Experience for the Generalitat of Catalonia, outlining how technology enhances service delivery and improves communication with citizens. (Source: keynote remarks)
With technology, we will be more efficient, more agile, and more responsive to citizens
Director General Generalitat of Digital Services and Citizen Experience
Manzano emphasized that technology should accelerate progress across society, touching on sustainability, gender equality, and social democracy. She described artificial intelligence not as an adversary but as a set of powerful tools that enable good outcomes, likening its potential to superhero capabilities that support public service missions. (Source: keynote remarks)
Success stories
She highlighted two Catalan government initiatives that strengthen citizen relations and ensure easier access to public services. First, the State’s Fields of Citizen Experience invite citizens to rate and improve administrative procedures and digital services, from forms to mobile apps. From her experience, it is evident that achieving uniform quality is not simple. The challenge now is to make processes faster and friendlier, the language clearer, and the online information architecture more intuitive. (Source: program notes)
The 21st century will be the century of cities, where the greatest changes will unfold
Founder and CEO of Anteverti
Genial data shows that the Generalitat’s video service now offers more than a thousand remote procedures with high citizen satisfaction. Reported savings from video-enabled services are considerable: roughly 85.5 kilograms of CO2 per 150 video sessions when compared to car travel, and similar reductions when using public transport. Conesa noted that governments face ongoing challenges in delivering services, but technology remains a powerful ally for improvement.
The transformation in homes, workplaces, schools, and streets is primarily driven by this ongoing revolution. Conesa, a curator of the Smart City Expo World Congress, opened a roundtable by stating that technology accelerates change. She predicted that cities will be the epicenters of climate action, noting that the best sustainable mobility may involve reducing unnecessary travel and using digital tools to cut energy use. The Smart City Expo World Congress is slated to take place at Fira Barcelona Gran Via from 7 to 9 November. (Source: event framing)
The fourth industrial revolution of digital transformation is the defining era
General Manager of Telefónica in Catalonia
Casas stressed that technology is a major driver for making resources more sustainable. He pointed out that modern smart-city infrastructures include sensors and connected devices, whose costs have dropped, enabling wide adoption and energy savings. The real turning point, he said, is the rollout of 5G, which unlocks the full potential of the Internet of Things. To meet the goal of accommodating 70% urban population by 2050, he argued for tools that boost efficiency and sustainability, such as soil moisture-based irrigation and data-driven waste collection. He also mentioned real-time guidance for drivers to reduce congestion and emissions. (Source: interview remarks)
Technology is the greatest facilitator of change and people are the engine of change
CaixaBank Tech General Manager
Jesús Lanero emphasized that change management is the biggest hurdle for organizations, and that a culture of innovation and collaboration is essential for long-term viability. He described a two-pronged approach: strong executive sponsorship and a compelling employee value proposition, including continuous training, flexibility, and a career path in an environment that favors teamwork and empowerment. (Source: leadership remarks)
Lanero also noted that successful digital adoption requires both top-level backing and a workforce prepared to adapt. He cited practical steps such as investing in professional development and fostering a culture that values communication and cooperation. (Source: leadership remarks)
Higher education and digital transformation
New technologies have expanded possibilities in universities, even as faculty members work to stay current. Digital tools are increasingly supporting campus operations and the daily tasks of staff and students. Xavier Triadó, Vice-Rector for Digital Transformation at the University of Barcelona, highlighted concerns about cybersecurity while managing a community of about 70,000 students. (Source: university remarks)
We need to identify what technology can help each group
Vice Rector for Digital Transformation, University of Barcelona
The university faces substantial challenges, including costs for cloud services, engaging a student body accustomed to digital interfaces, and making the virtual campus more useful for teachers. Triadó described a recent app that eliminates plastic cards for students and enables targeted, helpful communications. He argued that when institutions know how to use technology effectively, they become more competitive and capable of progressing further. (Source: university remarks)
The discussion at the roundtable, moderated by Natalia Ríos, editor-in-chief of the economy supplement, ended with reflections on the talent gap in Spain’s technology sector. Speakers urged a strong commitment to vocational training, increasing female representation in STEM, and expanding internal training in organizations. Conesa also pointed to a persistent imbalance between women and leadership roles, calling for cultural changes in schools and families. (Source: roundtable recap)