Despite the benefits of operations visibility and the technologies that are available today to facilitate it, this research found that there is a disconnect between the visibility that terminal operators believe they provide and the visibility that shippers feel they receive. In the previous article we discussed the role of poor system interoperability in this gap. In this article we will explore a number of other contributing factors starting with a network of disconnected systems.
A network of disconnected systems
Systems used across the supply chain also tend to lack integration capabilities. Real-time automated data sharing is limited, leaving data siloed within specific terminal systems rather than integrated across the broader supply chain. This means that other supply chain players struggle to access and extract it to advance their execution.
For instance, terminals might deploy a TOS to execute and monitor metrics like vessel, truck, or rail car turnaround times, cargo dwell times, equipment usage, and terminal processing capacity. While this information helps terminals to make internal operational decisions, such as allocating yard equipment or berths, these systems do not always deliver the same visibility into cargo movement to the terminal’s customers.
For example, if a TOS has not been integrated with the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) or logistics management systems used by shipping companies, terminal operators and shippers will be using separate and incompatible systems to access the same information. The disconnect leads to information silos, meaning that decisions are made based on each individual’s view of that information rather than a unified view.
Systems used across the supply chain also tend to lack integration capabilities. Real-time automated data sharing is limited, leaving data siloed within specific terminal systems rather than integrated across the broader supply chain. This fragmentation results in inefficiencies, as stakeholders cannot seamlessly exchange critical data, leading to delays, miscommunication, and missed optimisation opportunities. Without a centralised or interconnected system, supply chain players struggle to access and extract valuable data to advance their execution, often resorting to manual processes that slow operations.
For instance, terminals might deploy a Terminal Operating System (TOS) to execute and monitor key performance metrics such as vessel, truck, or rail car turnaround times, cargo dwell times, equipment usage, and terminal processing capacity. While this information helps terminals make internal operational decisions—such as allocating yard equipment, optimising berth assignments, or adjusting labour resources—these systems do not always provide the same level of visibility into cargo movement for the terminal’s customers. The lack of integration prevents shipping companies, freight forwarders, and logistics providers from gaining real-time insights into shipment status, making it difficult to plan and respond proactively.
For example, if a TOS has not been integrated with the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) or logistics management systems used by shipping companies, terminal operators and shippers will be relying on separate and often incompatible systems to access the same information. This disconnect leads to information silos, meaning that decisions are made based on each stakeholder’s isolated view rather than a unified, real-time picture of cargo movement. Consequently, inefficiencies increase, coordination between partners weakens, and the overall fluidity of the supply chain is compromised.
Even highly advanced systems such as a Port Community System (PCS) cannot provide a unified view of operations without effective integration with other systems. A PCS is based on electronic data exchange between multiple systems that are operated by a range of supply chain players, including ports, terminals, customs, carriers, and others. While a PCS provides value for enabling cargo throughput across all terminals in a port, the visibility it provides doesn’t extend to the wider supply chain.
Despite its ability to deliver real-time updates on vessel schedules, cargo status, and customs clearances specific to port operations, it is not a gateway into the operations activities of each terminal. The system needs to be integrated with MSW systems to transfer data from ship to shore or a TSW system to transfer data between traders and border agencies. Without this integration, the PCS will only provide visibility to the immediate port community and not the wider supply chain.
For further insight into the areas highlighted in this article, download our thought leadership report, The Great Divide, created in partnership with Kaleris.
