Port Community Systems in the Physical Internet

Abstract

Global supply chains currently are inefficient and unsustainable, due to their overlap and lack of interconnection. The Physical Internet (PI) proposes a paradigm shift in the way we move, store, supply, realize and use goods. The goal of the PI is to interconnect global supply chains, amongst others, on a digital level. For this, information systems are needed. Seaports, being drivers of global supply chains, therefore also need information systems on an integral level. In certain ports, Port Community Systems (PCS) serve as port’s information systems. They facilitate information exchange between stakeholders to better connect port processes. This research explores the potential role of PCS in PI ports. It does so by performing a Design Science Research (DSR). The artefact that is designed, is a conceptual information system that addresses key (PI) port functions. A case study analysis at Portbase, the Dutch PCS, has revealed what information is exchanged between which stakeholders. PI literature provides grip for PI information system requirements. The integration of the PCS analysis and the PI requirements has led to a design of an information system that shows the potential of a PCS in a PI port. The design shows that, according to the current offer of PCS services, PCS’ potential role focuses mainly on compliance related processes in PI ports. It also shows that the offer of logistics related services that are needed in PI ports, is limited. It is therefore recommended that PCS focus on an extension of logistics related services that are needed in PI ports. Future research may address the potential of PCS in a federated network of platforms.