Digital Twins are realistic digital representations of the physical world, frequently characterised by a two way link between digital and physical. Originating in manufacturing, they are now expanding to city and national scales. In this paper we explore connections between Geographic Information Science and National Digital Twins. Six different viewpoints and perspectives are presented on the topic, highlighting the importance of: geospatial data engineering; metadata engineering; standards; challenges facing mapping agencies; governance and public values; and a ”reality check” that explores the gaps between what is required and what can currently be achieved. We present 22 recommendations and summarise the findings by presenting a high level research agenda to enable better understanding and articulation of the link between the two. ... Read more

This paper introduces Property Valuation Application Domain Extension (ADE) within CityGML 3.0, aiming to integrate relevant indoor and outdoor 3D variables (cost estimation, view quality, etc.) for accurate property valuation. Current models lack the necessary features for this specific application. Leveraging IFC data for indoor elements, this ADE extends CityGML, addressing the existing gap. This paper identifies and categorizes data requirements, leading to the conceptualization and development of the model. By enriching CityGML 3.0 with IFC data, the approach introduces new features like the "Property Unit" to ensure adaptability across diverse valuation scenarios. Despite encountering data integrability challenges, we here commit to refining the model and overcoming these obstacles. A preliminary implementation using CityJSON demonstrates successful integration and paves the way for future implementation. These include developing an API platform and establishing an official repository to facilitate practical usability and scalability. This research significantly contributes to advancing property valuation processes by providing accurate valuations for stakeholders and promoting the use of 3D urban data in domain-specific extensions. ... Read more

The basic concept of a Digital Twin (DT) is a realistic digital representation of a physical thing with two-way flow of information from the physical to the model and back: one way is a refinement of the digital representation, back is the triggering of real impacts on the depicted reality. This concept was introduced by the manufacturing community to improve product life-cycle. It has extended to the built environment and underpins areas ranging from urban administration to telecommunications. Locationenabled Digital Twins are investigated at city and national levels motivated by cost reduction, efficiency, decision-making and innovation, and particularly to contribute to local and national Net Zero initiatives [Ellul et al. 2022]. ... Read more