This master's thesis examines the conceptual design of a smart village for the Haloze area, which faces significant demographic and economic challenges, including youth emigration and a lack of digital and transport infrastructure. The aim of the research is to demonstrate how digitalization, smart technologies, and sustainable practices can contribute to the revitalization of the area. The theoretical section systematically presents the domains included in the smart village concept, especially those with the greatest potential for digitalization and automation. The areas of smart agriculture, digital inclusion, sustainable mobility, renewable energy sources, and tourism development are discussed. Analysis of the literature and existing projects indicates that smart villages are not only technological initiatives but also socio-cultural and economic opportunities for strengthening local identity. The empirical part of the research is based on an analysis of good practice examples, which enabled the creation of a conceptual design for a smart village in Haloze. The suitability of the design was evaluated through qualitative analysis of six semi-structured interviews conducted with three users and three local decision-makers. In most respects, the interviewees confirmed the design as appropriate. They believe that residents are generally interested in increasing automation and digital services within the smart village framework, but they also highlight the gap between these ambitions and real-world obstacles, such as low digital literacy, limited internet access, and a lack of strategic planning. The findings of the research can serve as a basis for further strategic planning and the introduction of digital solutions that could, in the long term, contribute to the revitalization of Haloze.
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