Cities have long been limited by access to actionable intelligence, but that's changing in a big way with the advent of cognitive cities.

Initially focused on centralizing data and improving data-sharing, officials say this is the first step before tackling challenges before they appear.

The company pays users for taking photos, walking certain routes, or answering questions that help government fill knowledge gaps.

Following a surge in rodent complaints, local government is using predictive analytics, hackathons and smart trash cans to take back the streets.