Historically, the outstanding role of cities in the spatial organization of the state is to create reference points for the spatial development of the economy. «Smart City» is a new kind of city that provides sustainable growth and stimulates high-tech economic activity, thus reducing the burden on the environment and improving the quality of life of the population. To be effeciently modernized the Russian economy requires the concentration of resources and the formation of strong points of «smart» economic growth with a certain industry specialization throughout the country.

The article is devoted to research the approaches and best practices of application of the concept of «smart city», allowing to increase the efficiency of various parts of city infrastructure, which in turn become the motor and the core of innovative technologies introduction. Presented are conceptual and practical approaches to understanding the category of «smart city» and its interpretation in the modern world. The paper describes the structure of the «smart city», its most important and inalienable elements, their functions. In the course of the research, world examples of the «smart cities» development, the introduction of «smart» technologies, as well as the most successful projects and smart solutions in Russian practice were analyzed. Key success factors, existing requirements and possible prospects for the development of the considered concept were identified. It is concluded that it is advisable to introduce the technologies in Moscow and St. Petersburg. The preliminary rating of «smart cities» of Russia is considered, their strong and weak points are highlighted. In the context of international experience of different countries and economic systems, conclusions are drawn about the key ways to implement the «smart city» concept.