Hi, I’m Jim Tompkins, and like to share a few thoughts on port operations. Two topics really: port digitization and automation. These two factors together, port digitization and automation have significant implications for the maritime industry. They have transformed, how ports operate and how ports interact with global supply chains. If we look at digital solutions, we see 3 topics. First of all, the streamlining of port operations increasing throughput and making them more efficient, safe, and secure. Secondly, allowing for the tracking of shipments from origin to destination, yes, end to end, enhancing transparency, accountability, optimizing vessel routes, reducing emissions and minimizing ecological impacts. Thirdly, under digital solutions, we are seeing the interconnectivity of ports to foster collaboration and information exchange benefiting the entire ocean shipping industry. If we look at the automation side of ports, we see first of all, automated cranes, robotic handlers and AGVs and autonomous trucks, allowing for the automation of the flow of goods through ports. Secondly, we’re seeing gate operating automation and yard management operations which are allowing us to automate the flow of vehicles into and out of the port operations. And thirdly, we’re using drones for surveillance and for maintenance. So the ports of today have been transformed by port digitization and automation exciting times ahead as we increase the flow of goods around the world.
