PERFORMANCE
INCREASING PRODUCTIVITY WITH TOS
Credit: Tideworks Technology
Over the past decade, there has been a shift toward “smart” technologies that help increase efficiency, writes Hugh Gallagher, vice president of marine client services, Tideworks Technology
Decision makers across the supply chain are also evaluating smart technologies to identify ways to boost operational efficiency and enhance productivity, safety and sustainability of their operations. Even before the onset of pandemic-related supply chain challenges, terminal operators acknowledged the necessity of implementing technology and were updating existing processes to modernise their terminals. The increase in container volumes and resulting congestion from the pandemic has heightened urgency around modernisation strategies and put enhanced pressure on terminal operators. The role of TOS According to a 2021 report by the International Transport Forum, container terminal operators are the main driving force for terminal automation projects. As a long-term partner of terminal operators and full-service provider of comprehensive terminal operating system (TOS) solutions, Tideworks Technology has seen its customers (terminal operators) turn to TOS as the foundation of their modernisation projects. In past decades, terminals were not dependent on technology to the degree they are today. Now that story is drastically different. TOS and the ancillary technologies that support terminal operations have become mission-critical components that enable terminals to achieve their business objectives, such as improving efficiency, safety and service. Through additional automation, TOS solutions are becoming even better equipped to transform the way ports and terminals operate through more sophisticated integrations and data
14 | SUMMER 2022
8 Even before the onset of pandemicrelated supply chain challenges, terminal operators acknowledged the necessity of implementing technology
capabilities. And as introduced above, for many terminal operators, their TOS is the foundation to their automation and smart strategies because it can seamlessly integrate with other critical transactions throughout the terminal. The term “smart terminal strategies” doesn’t have a singular definition and may have different meanings for various industry players. When Tideworks’ customers use the phrase “smart terminal” we’ve found they are often referring to modernisation programmes and efforts to increase technology adoption, integration and automation within their terminal or across their terminal network. Regardless of the definition or term used, Tideworks is seeing more customers express interest in ways they can modernise operations. However, before supply chain stakeholders invest in new technologies, even TOS, it’s important to set a strategy and understand which aspects of your operations you want technology to address. Evaluating technology Implementing any technology platform should involve careful planning and execution. Before making a TOS purchase decision, operators should consider taking the following steps: 9 Identify current business processes Before incorporating new technology into existing terminal operations, it is important for organisations to have a clear understanding of their current business processes. Knowing what works and what needs to be improved through new technology can help TOS providers tailor solutions to fit a
For the latest news and analysis go to www.greenport.com/news
