A hierarchical taxonomy of decision-making models for container terminal operations. (13th February 2009)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tsitsamis, Dimitrios; Vlachos, Dimitrios; Iakovou, Eleftherios; Douligeris, Christos
• Is Part Of: International journal of logistics, economics and globalisation. Volume 1:Number 3/4(2008)
• Page Start: 365
• Page End: 382
• Publication Date: 2009-02-13
• Subjects: container terminals -- decision support systems -- DSS -- hierarchical decision making -- port logistics -- port management -- operations management -- information technology -- management information systems -- MIS; Logistics -- Periodicals; Logistics -- Economic aspects -- Periodicals; Globalization -- Periodicals; 658.505
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1741-5373

Abstract

Managing container terminal operations in seaports is a cumbersome, complex and challenging problem. Given the importance of container traffic for international trade, it is surprising that this issue has been mostly tackled myopically. The problem involves a number of different criteria, such as faster discharge and loading of containers (vessel turnaround time), increased yard and equipment utilisation, and faster container turnaround time. In this article, we present a novel hierarchical framework that captures systematically the complexity in the decision-making process recognising its natural hierarchy (strategic, tactical and operational), the interdependencies among specific operations and the various forms of constraints including technological, spatial, temporal, monetary, and organisational as well as constraints imposed by the interests of various partners and customers of a port. We further emphasise and document the role of information technologies and management information systems solutions in implementing comprehensive policies.