A Cloud-Based SOA for Enhancing Information Exchange and Decision Support in ITT Operations

With the emergence of global markets, the efficiency of port operations has become a decisive factor for the economy and quality of global supply chains. After decades of streamlining terminal operations, ports still experience process and coordination problems due to a lack of information exchange and decision support. To improve the overall efficiency and quality of port operations, innovative information systems for gathering and processing operational data based on identification, sensing and mobile technologies are required to enhance the visibility of operations in information systems. A port-centric information system also requires the integration of external systems, such as traffic control systems, to further consider external factors. In this paper, we present a cloud-based system architecture for the real-time collection, management, and utilization of operational data with a particular focus on inter-terminal transportation. The proposed system architecture is based on widely adopted standards and utilizes the cost-effectiveness and scalability of a cloud computing infrastructure for processing large amounts of operational data. The information system lowers the bounded rationality of actors providing information and decision support as a service to the port community and other stakeholders. As such, this paper is intended to provide a conceptual view on a system for enhancing the management of real-time data to better manage traffic flows and transport modes, enhance the coordination between intra-terminal and inter-terminal/landside operations, and reduce empty handling processes.