Process-Oriented Digitalization in Port Systems: Evidence from the Port of Trieste

Thispaperanalysestheroleofdigitalisationinportsystemswithinthe context of the major transformations currently affecting the contemporary port sector, including technological, energy and geopolitical transitions. The study presented here stems from a research project that, starting with an analysis of existing processes related to port digitization, sought to develop a digital tool that would serve as an orchestrator, with the aim of simplifying a particularly fragmented and complex process: the procedure for semi-trailers to obtain port access permits. The analysis was based on an applied qualitative approach, in which, in an ini- tial phase, a series of unstructured interviews were conducted with key stakehold- ers to understand the operational processes that could be implemented, identifying a systemic gap attributable to the fragmentation of information flows and limited interoperability between the Port Community System (Sinfomar) and Terminal Operating Systems. This gap is particularly evident in truck access management processes, characterized by duplication of tasks, the use of parallel tools and a high incidence of manual operations. In a second phase the development of a digital process orchestration tool was implemented, designed as an intermediate layer of integration between existing systems. The application of the solution to the access process for departing lorries has yielded significant results, with operational times reduced from several minutes to a few seconds, accompanied by a decrease in errors and smoother flows.