Abstract: The concept, features and inner value of smart metro is expounded in depth. Its intelligent characteristics include five aspects: self\|perception, analysis and diagnosis, self\|decision\|making, precise execution and self\|learning, through which inner values of sensitivity to perception, excellence in analysis, wisdom in decision\|making, precision in execution and capability of learning shall be equipped. The necessity of constructing smart metro architecture reference model is analyzed. The basic methods of smart metro development are data driven and software definition. Development strategy of "digitalization, integration, software, platform and intelligence" are proposed.