City Solutions Network is simultaneously a publication in its own right, a library and database of useful references and contacts, and a network of practitioners and experts.

As a starting point, the Network addresses three typical urgent situations facing urban decision-makers that may call for fast choices under pressure and for rapid action.

These include:

• introducing and implementing programs of major reforms to "turn around" cities in bad shape;
• moving quickly to make current operations more effective after a scandal, breakdown, or crisis has occurred; and
• planning for and responding to urban emergency situations, such as natural disasters.

While the above situations are not rare in the early 21st century, they are still not the norm. Thus, City Solutions Network also addresses tough choices that urban leaders face on an ongoing basis. Fast answers may not be possible, desirable, or required. However, balancing competing interests and viewpoints is vital to political success and survival. Not everyone will be, or can be, pleased by everything urban leaders do. Examples of tough choices are those between interests of existing residents and those of new arrivals, between greater access for individual vehicles and more resources for public transport, etc. In each case, the Network shows how urban leaders have been able to resolve long-standing issues and problems. It also comments on the sustainability and wider applicability of solutions adopted.