Strategic Monitoring in Port Authority Management: Implementing an Original Digital Platform

Strategic monitoring is essential for enhancing the efficiency, security, and sustainability of port authority operations. Traditional monitoring approaches often lack integration and real-time analysis, limiting their effectiveness in decision-making. This paper presents an innovative, data-driven Decision Support System (DSS) designed to optimise strategic monitoring in port authority management. The study builds upon existing literature and insights from the EU-funded PortForward project, emphasizing the increasing role of digitalization in port governance. Through a systematic literature review, key challenges and opportunities in port performance monitoring are identified, leading to the development of a multidimensional dashboard. The proposed DSS framework incorporates four performance domains: port authorities and concessionaires, logistics and operations, market trends, and green challenges, each assessed through tailored Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). By integrating digital technologies such as IoT and cloud computing, the dashboard enables port authorities to monitor concessionaire activities effectively while aligning with sustainability objectives and European policy directives. The findings highlight the value of multidimensional performance assessment tools in fostering port competitiveness and stakeholder engagement. This study provides managerial and policy implications for port authorities transitioning toward efficiency-driven and environmentally responsible operational models.