How the urban mobility factor impacts the global mobility factor

One of the things that has to be considered for an international assignment to be successful (and maybe slightly less expensive) is how local transportation needs can be met. Will the expatriate be able to drive in their host country, will they need a car & driver or are there public transportation options that are readily available? Some cities have an urban mobility factor that can positively impact the global mobility factor!

Well, Oliver Wyman Forum’s inaugural Urban Mobility Readiness Index: How Cities Rank on Mobility Ecosystem Development, has arrived and ranks 30 cities on how prepared they are to incorporate the latest mobility technologies. Per the article, the index analyzes existing public and private mobility networks; current regulation, policy, and infrastructure; a city’s livability; and its capacity to absorb future technologies. 

They explain that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to urban mobility because no two cities are starting from the same point. "For example, cities around the world operate at vastly different stages of development when it comes to mobility. In Los Angeles, 89 percent of travel involves a car, while in Hong Kong only seven percent does. In Amsterdam, 60 percent of people get around by cycling or walking; in Mexico City, 70 percent take mass transit."

So which cities ranked the highest for urban mobility:

1. Singapore
2. Amsterdam
3. London
4. Shanghai
5. New York
6. Tokyo
7. Helsinki
8. Beijing
9. Seoul
10. Berlin

Looking out at the future, there may one day be flying taxis to consider in the host location. Check out what Uber and Hyundai are working on!

Additionally, try this for ideas on what your company can do to promote success on international assignments.