Data-driven innovation in port management and monitoring: the Smart Port Dashboard

Purpose The primary objective of this study is to address the limitations of traditional port performance monitoring systems by introducing an advanced, data-driven platform. By integrating real-time analytics, the proposed system provides port authorities with a comprehensive tool to enhance operational efficiency, sustainability and competitiveness. The research seeks to support strategic decision-making by offering a holistic evaluation of port activities across multiple stakeholders and domains. Additionally, this study aims to align port operations with evolving environmental regulations and technological advancements, thus ensuring enhanced efficiency of port management activities. Design/methodology/approach The present study adopts a data-driven approach to enhance port performance monitoring through an integrated digital platform. The research methodology involves a combination of quantitative data analytics, real-time monitoring technologies and stakeholder feedback analysis. A multi-dimensional performance dashboard is developed to aggregate and detect key performance indicators (KPIs) from various sources, including port operations, market trends, concessionaire activities and environmental metrics. The platform utilises big data analytics, machine learning and cloud computing to ensure real-time processing and predictive insights. A case study methodology is used to validate the system's effectiveness in improving decision-making within port management. Findings The implementation of a real-time performance dashboard significantly improves port authorities’ ability to monitor and evaluate key operational metrics. Findings indicate that data integration across multiple domains enhances transparency, optimises resource allocation and fosters proactive decision-making. The proposed platform effectively addresses challenges related to efficiency, sustainability and competitiveness, thus allowing ports to respond dynamically to market and regulatory demands. Moreover, the research highlights how predictive analytics and automated reporting streamline port management, reducing inefficiencies and operational bottlenecks. The case study analysis confirms that digital transformation plays a pivotal role in facilitating a smarter and more sustainable port ecosystem. Originality/value This study contributes to the existing literature on port digitalisation by introducing a novel, data-driven approach to performance monitoring. Unlike conventional monitoring tools, the proposed decision support system integrates advanced analytics and real-time data processing, offering port authorities a more adaptive and strategic framework for decision-making. The research provides practical value by presenting an innovative technological solution that aligns with contemporary challenges in port management, such as environmental sustainability, operational complexity and evolving regulatory frameworks. Ultimately, this study underscores the transformative potential of digitalisation in port operations, highlighting the potential benefits of more efficient, resilient and sustainable maritime logistics networks.