Land productivity of seaport terminals: the role of exogenous factors

When considering terminal performance attention is mostly directed toward production factors such as labour, capital and technology within the confines of the physical terrain. Operations on seaport terminals can be further enhanced by optimising processes and technical upgrades. The role of the general environment, however, often remains neglected. This paper aims to reintroduce exogenous factors to the contemporary land productivity analysis. We develop a conceptual framework for the identification of relevant exogenous factors and the potential impacts these factors have on the possibilities for the terminal operator to achieve a high land productivity. The framework to address exogenous drivers serves as the basis for a guided survey. Terminal operation experts were asked to assess exogenous factors in relation to land productivity. The results indicate that exogenous factors are considered a valuable contribution.