The influence of the port innovation system on port services optimization: evidence from Lisbon and Setúbal
Innovation driven by technological advancement and digitalization is transforming port operations. This study investigates the influence of the port innovation system, with a focus on optimizing ship and cargo services at the ports of Lisbon and Setúbal. The main dimensions of the Port Innovation System (PIS) include human capital, innovation demand, research cooperation, collaborative structures, incubation services, innovation culture, and governance, all of which influence Port Service Optimization (PSO). Using a mixed-methods approach, the study also explores the role of the strategy of the Port Development Company (PDC) in shaping innovation outcomes. This article contributes to both theory and practice by enhancing the understanding of innovation systems in ports and providing evidence-based guidance for policy and management. It finds that the quality of human capital affects the structures of port cooperation, and that the lack of alignment between innovation demand and research cooperation mechanisms undermines the effectiveness of the port innovation system. The results enable policymakers and industry leaders to focus on developing advanced skill enhancement programs, organizational structures and roadmaps to foster innovation in ports. We also find that the strategy of the PDC has a moderating role in the relationship between PIS and PSO, highlighting the need for tailored innovation strategies of the PDC.
- 1. Introduction
Maritime logistics, a pillar of global trade, is undergoing a profound transition shaped by digital transformation, environmental imperatives, and the growing complexity of supply chains [1, 2]. Ports, as critical nodes in maritime logistics, face increasing pressure to become more efficient and sustainable [3]. This requires innovation [4]. Although innovation has gained prominence in broader discussions on supply chain and logistics performance [5], its analysis in the context of port operations and service optimization remains limited.
Innovation theories are well established, but their application to ports is limited. This study applies innovation theories to understand how innovation contributes to better port operations. This research investigates the role of innovation systems in shaping the optimization of vessel calls and cargo services. While numerous governmental initiatives promote innovation, several authors identify gaps in the literature concerning how the elements of the Port Innovation System (PIS) influence the performance of key port services [5,6,7,8].
The study seeks to advance the understanding of effective innovation strategies aligned with the characteristics of the port innovation system. It combines quantitative assessment using fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) with qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews conducted with key stakeholders at the ports of Lisbon and Setúbal.
The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of the Port Innovation System (PIS) on Port Service Optimization (PSO) for ships and cargo, considering the moderating role of the strategy of the Port Development Company (PDC). The main objective is to evaluate the different elements of the PIS—human capital, innovation demand, research cooperation, collaborative structures, incubation services, innovation culture, and innovation governance—and how they influence the port services provided to ships and cargo. Additionally, the study aims to: (a) analyze the effect of each PIS element on PSO; (b) examine the moderating effect of the PDC in the model; and (c) assess whether the insights from the interviews can help to enhance the model.
The central research question guiding this study is: do the elements of the Port Innovation System (PIS) influence Port Service Optimization (PSO), and does the strategy of the Port Development Company (PDC) moderate this relationship?
By clarifying the mechanisms through which innovation influences port service optimization, this study offers strategic insights for PDCs, policymakers, and stakeholders seeking to promote more innovative and efficient port ecosystems.
The paper is structured as follows: after the introduction, Sect. 2 presents the literature review along with the research hypotheses; Sect. 3 details the adopted methodology, highlighting the research model, sample, measurements, and methods; Sect. 4 covers the analysis and results, distinguishing between quantitative and qualitative findings; Sect. 5 presents the discussion; and finally, Sect. 6 sets out the conclusions and contributions, including limitations and directions for future research.