What is a Smart Port?

Smart Port Definition

The definition of a Smart Port is seen by many as a highly developed, automated container terminal and whilst that is a Smart Port, it shouldn’t be confused with the definition of a Smart Port.

The truth is that there is no universally agreed set baseline to determine whether a port is smart or not. The term “Smart Port” encompasses ports on many different levels of development and so it can be seen more as a spectrum that all ports are on, rather than a specific definition.

What is common in Smart Ports is the smart use of technology and data to increase efficiency of operations and level of service to the ports customers.

Utilisation of Smart Port Technology

Smart Port technology does not have to be full automation or highly advanced technology. All ports have the opportunity to utilise technology to advance their progression on the Smart Ports spectrum and should not be deterred by seeing highly advanced ports and concluding utilisation of Smart Port technology is therefore unrealistic for them. Starting your Smart Port journey can be as simple as digitising as-built information of assets instead of storing it as hard paper copies or modernising your traditional paper based workflows.

Right Use of Investment Capital

Without expert assistance, the development of a port towards becoming smarter is at risk of being overly-influenced by the technological curiosities of the port’s staff or the capability of technology provider’s sales teams. This in turn can lead to a technology based progression where investment is based upon the want of a particular system or product, rather than addressing a specific identified need. The result is inefficient use of investment capital and a disorganised approach to development. Furthermore an investment strategy of this type risks acquisitions quickly becoming superseded, or acting as blockers to the acquisition of future technologies.

We Can Help

We believe the development of a port along the Smart Port spectrum should be considered, managed and planned to address specific needs or challenges. This way the port can gain the greatest benefit from investment in Smart Port technology, which in turn can act as enablers for future technology investment rather than blockers.

Contact NIRAS today and we can be your partner to progress along the Smart Port spectrum, regardless of where you currently are!

Our Approach

We start by assessing your existing processes and use of technology to conclude your ports current Smart Port technology utilisation. From there we will seek to understand existing demands and issues within the port and available budgets for future investment. Suitable technological solutions can then be identified on the basis of budget, priority and benefit.

Although this can be undertaken as a singular Smart Port Strategy, we firmly believe it should be holistic to the overall development of the port and integrated into the port’s overarching masterplan, creating a Smart Port Masterplan. Smart and Green Ports are heavily linked. The movement towards becoming a Smart Port inevitably also moves the port towards becoming a Green Port. Working smarter can reduce inefficiencies and allow the port to optimise their existing land use and operations. The acquisition of green technology can consequently also be integrated into this process, creating a holistic Smart and Green Port Masterplan.

Learn more about what a Green Port is.