Can Digitalisation Deliver 'Smart' Port Operations? So… is this leading us towards ‘Smart Ports’?


A smart port can be described as one that uses automation, technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (AoT) and Big Data to drive improvements in efficiency, performance and operations. Moreover, ports that are ‘data centric’ and using innovation and technology to drive progression and efficiencies certainly seem to be adopting a ‘smart port’ mentality. OceanWise proudly works with most of the major ports in the UK and has seen a significant increase in the requirement for data management training as well as the implementation of applications or systems that have data sharing and interoperability at their heart. A recent example of which is the state‐of‐the‐art system installed at the Port of Dover. The project included the supply of a new VTS Operations system and workstations, a Port Management Information System (PMIS), various Radars, a VHF System, Radio Direction Finders (RDF), Automatic Identification System, CCTV and new met‐ocean sensors and an environmental data sharing platform (Port‐Log ‐ designed and installed by OceanWise). Steven Masters, Dover Harbour Master describes the challenge the port faced: “Over the years, the role of the VTS Officer has changed, it has evolved in response to ever increasing volumes of vessel traffic and ever improving developments in information technology and legislation. The new Port of Dover system blends this together superbly.” (full press release available atwww.Oceanwise.eu/news.


What are the benefits?


The benefits are many and varied, not only affecting the Port but the people and businesses that live and operate around them. ‘Smart Port’ thinking could optimise resources, improve efficiency and transparency in operations thereby supporting data sharing, improved safety and importantly, lower costs. It can also be used to monitor environmental impact on and off shore, such as air and water quality. Ports making smarter use of GIS digital platforms to store information about both its marine and land assets can also benefit from improved geospatial data management throughout their businesses.


What are the challenges to achieving success?


Often the biggest barrier is ‘change’ itself and our inherent fear of it. Change can be scary and often people hear the term


‘automation’ and immediately think ‘machinery replacing people leading to job losses’. Therefore education, communication and training are important considerations for any port embarking on a programme of ‘change’.


Cost is also a big limiting factor as technology, equipment, and training can be expensive. Of course it’s clear that investment will be necessary, but often the return on investment when weighed against the commercial risk of ‘doing nothing’ will make this decision easier.


John Pepper adds “One of the biggest challenges in bringing about ‘change’ does not rest with the data, the technology or the standards we use to share and exchange data; it lies with the governance of data vested in organisations and people. We need to embrace a comprehensive and globally shared view of how technology can affect and reshape ports rather than operating with an isolated or ‘silo’ mentality”.


It seems that digitalisation is now upon us and yes, it will make a huge difference to ports in the UK and farther afield. Change is already happening and ‘smart ports’ are no longer a myth… but becoming a reality. Those who choose to take the early steps might also have the opportunity to shape how the future looks and create new opportunities for growth. If port data and information is given the attention and governance that it deserves, then the advent of the ‘smart port’ should quickly become the norm.


Katriona Eades Marketing Co‐ordinator, OceanWise


John Pepper Marketing Director, OceanWise


New VTS system. Port of Dover Image Source Dover Strait Shipping


[1] Ref: World Economic Forum White Paper Digital Transformation of Industries: Digital Enterprise. [2] Ref: Maritime 2050 Strategy. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/maritime‐2050‐navigating‐; the‐future. [3] Ref: UKMPG (UK Major orts Group). http://ukmajorports.org.uk/port‐2050‐what‐the‐uks‐biggest‐ports‐think‐; could‐shape‐the‐port‐of‐tomorrow‐and‐boost‐trade/


Member of the Society of Maritime Industries 24 Society of Maritime Industries Annual Review 2019


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