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BIBLIOMETRIC STUDY OF ORGANIZATIONAL MANAGEMENT IN PORT

TERMINALS

ESTUDIO BIBLIOMÉTRICO DE LA GESTIÓN ORGANIZACIONAL EN TERMINALES

PORTUARIAS

Autores: ¹Rafael Emiliano Apolinario Quintana, ²Sophía Bethzabel Galárraga Tobar, ³Carla

Alexandra Andrade Arteaga, 4Bélgica Cecilia Nájera Núñez y 5Edison Ángel Erazo

Flores

¹ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1719-5425

²ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3722-2064

²ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3416-157X

4ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0852-3546

5ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9627-9346

¹E-mail de contacto: rafael.apolinarioqu@ug.edu.ec

²E-mail de contacto: sophia.galarragat@ug.edu.ec

³E-mail de contacto: carla.andradea@ug.edu.ec

4E-mail de contacto: belgica.najeranu@ug.edu.ec

4E-mail de contacto: edison.erazof@ug.edu.ec

Afiliación: ¹*²*³*4*5*Universidad de Guayaquil, (Ecuador).

Articulo recibido: 4 de Abril del 2025

Articulo revisado: 9 de Abril del 2025

Articulo aprobado: 12 de Mayo del 2025

¹Ingeniero Industrial graduado en la Universidad de Guayaquil, (Ecuador). Magíster en Ciencias Internacionales y Diplomacia graduado

en la Universidad de Guayaquil, (Ecuador). Magíster en Negocios Internacionales y Gestión de Comercio Exterior graduado en la

Universidad de Guayaquil, (Ecuador). Doctor en Administración Estratégica de Empresas graduado en la Pontificia Universidad Católica

del Perú, (Perú).

²Analista en Sistemas graduada en la Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral, (Ecuador). Licenciada en Sistemas de Información graduada

en la Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral, (Ecuador). Magíster en Administración de Empresas graduada en la Escuela Superior

Politécnica del Litoral, (Ecuador). Magíster en Diseño y Gestión de Marca graduada en la Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral,

(Ecuador). Doctora en Planificación Pública y Privada graduada en la Universidad Nacional de Tumbes, (Perú).

³Ingeniera Comercial y Empresarial Especialización Comercio Exterior graduada en la Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral, (Ecuador).

Magíster en Economía y Dirección de Empresas graduada en la Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral, (Ecuador). Doctora dentro del

Programa de Doctorado en Administración y Dirección de Empresas graduada en la Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, (España).

4Contadora Pública Autorizada graduada en la Universidad de Guayaquil, (Ecuador). Magíster en Administración de Empresas mención

en Negocios Internacionales graduada en la Universidad de Guayaquil, (Ecuador).

5Ingeniero Comercial graduado en la Universidad de Guayaquil, (Ecuador). Contador Público Autorizado graduado en la Universidad de

Guayaquil, (Ecuador). Magíster en Administración de Empresas mención en Negocios Internacionales graduado en la Universidad

Católica de Nueva España, (España).

Resumen

Este estudio presenta un análisis bibliométrico

de la investigación científica sobre gestión

organizacional en terminales portuarias, con el

objetivo de identificar las principales

tendencias, autores prolíficos, países líderes,

revistas clave y temas de investigación en

evolución en este campo. Utilizando Scopus

como base de datos principal y VOSviewer

para la visualización de datos, el estudio

analiza 60 documentos relevantes publicados

entre 2015 y 2023. Los resultados revelan un

creciente interés en temas como la eficiencia

logística, el rendimiento portuario, la

transformación digital y la sostenibilidad en las

operaciones de terminales portuarias. El

análisis también destaca el predominio de

ciertas regiones en la producción científica y el

surgimiento de colaboraciones

interdisciplinarias. Esta revisión bibliométrica

proporciona información valiosa para

investigadores, responsables políticos y

profesionales interesados en el desarrollo de

una gestión eficiente y competitiva de

terminales portuarias.

Palabras clave: Terminales portuarias,

Gestión organizacional, Análisis

bibliométrico, Logística, Investigación

marítima.

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Abstract

This study presents a bibliometric analysis of

scientific research on organizational

management in port terminals, aiming to

identify the main trends, prolific authors,

leading countries, key journals, and evolving

research topics in this field. Using Scopus as

the primary database and VOSviewer for data

visualization, the study analyzes 60 relevant

documents published between 2015 and 2023.

The results reveal a growing interest in topics

such as logistics efficiency, port performance,

digital transformation, and sustainability in

port terminal operations. The analysis also

highlights the dominance of certain regions in

scientific production and the emergence of

interdisciplinary collaborations. This

bibliometric overview provides valuable

insights for researchers, policymakers, and

practitioners interested in the development of

efficient and competitive port terminal

management.

Keywords: Port terminals, Organizational

management, Bibliometric analysis,

Logistics, Maritime research.

Sumário

Este estudo apresenta uma análise

bibliométrica da pesquisa científica sobre

gestão organizacional em terminais portuários,

com o objetivo de identificar as principais

tendências, autores prolíficos, países líderes,

periódicos-chave e tópicos de pesquisa em

evolução nessa área. Utilizando o Scopus como

base de dados principal e o VOSviewer para

visualização de dados, o estudo analisa 60

documentos relevantes publicados entre 2015 e

2023. Os resultados revelam um interesse

crescente em tópicos como eficiência logística,

desempenho portuário, transformação digital e

sustentabilidade nas operações de terminais

portuários. A análise também destaca a

predominância de determinadas regiões na

produção científica e o surgimento de

colaborações interdisciplinares. Esta visão

geral bibliométrica fornece insights valiosos

para pesquisadores, formuladores de políticas e

profissionais interessados no desenvolvimento

de uma gestão de terminais portuários eficiente

e competitiva.

Palavras-chave: Terminais portuários,

Gestão organizacional, Análise

bibliométrica, Logística, Pesquisa marítima.

Introduction

Ports have historically been recognized as

fundamental strategic nodes in the global

supply chain, acting not only as connection

points between continents and countries, but

also as key hubs for economic, cultural and

social activity in nearby communities

(Apolinario & Guevara 2021). According to

Molina (2018), the shipping industry is the

backbone on which most of the world's trade is

based, a statement that underscores the central

importance of ports in global trade. In recent

decades, ports have undergone several

significant transformations, especially around

automation and digitalization of services

provided by both small and medium-sized

enterprises (SMEs) and large corporations

within the port logistics environment (Gerlitz &

Meyer, 2021). This process of change has not

only affected operational efficiency but has also

redefined competitiveness in a sector that now

faces new dynamics and challenges (Munim &

Saeed 2019). As ports enter their fifth phase of

evolution, it becomes clear that the era of ports

dependent on physical documentation and

manual processes is behind us (Esmer et al.,

2016). This transition marks a crucial step

forward in the modernization of the sector,

which has evolved from local integration of

terminals and ports, through regional

collaboration between cities and ports, to global

integration in which ports and terminals operate

in a coordinated manner within an

interconnected global supply chain

(Notteboom, 2020). This process not only

reflects progress in terms of physical

infrastructure, but also the transformative

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impact of technology, which enables ports to

offer faster, more efficient and accessible

services on a global scale (Bonamigo et al.,

2023).

In this context, the technological

implementation of port logistics as an essential

component of supply chain management (SCM)

is an indispensable development. However, a

relevant obstacle remains investment capacity,

particularly for SMEs, which often face

limitations in their operating capital, restricting

their ability to adopt technological innovations

in emerging logistics models (De la Peña 2020).

This challenge is reflected in studies such as

those by De la Peña et al. (2020) and Kapkaeva

et al. (2021) who highlight the competitive

disadvantage of small firms compared to their

larger competitors, who have the resources to

invest in new technologies. The transition to

more sophisticated logistics models can

generate a significant gap between companies

that manage to adapt quickly to automation and

digitization, and those that cannot, putting at

risk their competitiveness in an industry that

demands adaptability and efficiency (Guerrero

et al., 2024). Another critical aspect that affects

the efficiency of logistics within the port sector

is the lack of effective communication between

the different participants in the supply chain-

suppliers, distributors, retailers and consumers-

a factor that, as other studies point out, can

generate inefficiencies in the flow of logistics

activities and affect the quality of services

offered to customers (Notteboom, 2020). In a

globalized and highly interdependent context,

where delivery times and accuracy are crucial

for customer satisfaction, any failure in

communication can result in delays, additional

costs and loss of competitiveness (Merkel &

Sløk, 2019). Thus, improved inter-agency

communication systems and the integration of

technological platforms for information

exchange are essential solutions to optimize

port performance and improve the coordinate

on of operations along the supply chain

(Ringsberg & Lumsden 2016).

Following Esmer at al. (2006) competitive

strategy model, the competitive position of a

port is largely defined by two key variables: the

net value perceived by customers and the

control that the port exerts over its area of

influence. According to Silva-Domingo (2010)

and Roos & Klieman (2017) these factors are

determining factors when it comes to attracting

traffic and securing a stable share of the global

market. Port authorities must evaluate both

tangible and intangible resources, such as

organizational capabilities, to make strategic

decisions that ensure a long-term supply of

capacity (Thai, 2015). This reflection is crucial

in the strategic planning process of port

authorities, as making the right decisions can

mean the difference between competitiveness

and obsolescence (Esmer at al., 2016).

To gain an in-depth understanding of the current

state of organizational management in the port

sector, bibliometric studies have established

themselves as an invaluable tool for identifying

research trends and emerging areas of interest

over time (Pallis et al., 2024). Using methods

such as PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for

Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses), it is

possible to conduct systematic reviews and

meta-analyses that provide a clear view of

existing research and allow the identification of

gaps in knowledge (Page et al., 2021). These

studies not only help to improve decision

making in port authorities and logistics

companies, but also facilitate the identification

of areas that require further attention, such as

the integration of new technologies,

sustainability in port operations, and human

resource management (Munim & Saeed 2019).

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In addition, the PRISMA methodology provides

a robust structure for assessing the quality of the

studies included in the reviews, ensuring the

reliability of the results and the validity of the

conclusions drawn (Leyton et al., 2023). This

methodological approach not only fosters

collaboration between researchers from

different institutions but also promotes the

creation of cooperative networks between the

public and private sectors, which is essential for

strengthening research in port organizational

management (Martin et al., 2020). Inter-

institutional cooperation contributes

significantly to the development of innovative

and sustainable solutions that can have a

profound impact on port efficiency and

competitiveness (Saragiotis 2019).

The potential Impact of this bibliometric study

and literature review Is significant for the future

of port organizational management research. By

identifying existing knowledge gaps and

providing a clearer picture of emerging trends,

this type of research can generate new lines of

inquiry and provide innovative solutions that

improve the sustainability and efficiency of port

operations (Linnenluecke et al., 2019).

Strengthening cooperation between academic

institutions, government agencies and the

private sector can facilitate the development of

public policies and business strategies that are

more aligned with the sector’s global

challenges, such as climate change, digitization

and automation of port operations, which will

enhance the role of ports as key players in

global trade (Seguï et al., 2016).

Materials and Methods

To provide a useful guide for academics,

professionals and those responsible for strategic

and organizational management in the port

sector, an exploratory qualitative approach

study was carried out under the design of a

bibliometric analysis (Leyton et al., 2023). This

approach is considered a comprehensive tool

that allows the evaluation of scientific activity,

identifying key indicators that mainly measure

the quality, production and impact of existing

research (García & García, 2021). In addition, it

facilitates the analysis of current trends in

research to define emerging and fundamental

thematic priorities for the near future (Diniz et

al., 2024). The bibliometric analysis was

performed following the guidelines of the

PRISMA 2020 international statement for

literature review (Linnenluecke et al., 2019).

The admissibility criteria are a central piece in

the systematic review, as they ensure the quality

and robustness of the findings, contributing to

the transparency and reproducibility of

scientific research (Puspitawati, 2014). These

criteria specify how the limits of inclusion and

exclusion of studies are established, ensuring

that the selected articles are relevant to the port

sector subject matter (Page et al., 2021). The

rigorous application of these criteria is essential

to avoid bias and ensure that the results obtained

are representative and valid (Snyder 2019).

All studies that met the initial conditions of the

literature review were included, covering

variables such as type of study, topic, research

objectives, management, quality and

organizational strategies in the port sector

(Sousa et al., 2020). The review also considered

key aspects for the training of future engineers

in the sector, particularly those essential skills

such as critical thinking, teamwork and

communication (Landaburu et al., 2023). These

skills are fundamental to lead and carry out

innovations within the port field, being

determining factors for the sustainable and

competitive development of port infrastructures

(Samanés et al., 2019). By establishing these

criteria, a comprehensive review is sought that

integrates both theoretical and applied studies,

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providing a solid basis for future research and

improvements in port management (O’Connor

et al., 2023). The exclusion criteria allow clear

limits to be established as to which studies

should not be considered for the review. In this

case, articles were excluded in three phases: (1)

duplicate author records within each database

were eliminated; (2) papers whose publication

date was prior to 2013 were excluded, thus

ensuring that only relevant and up-to-date

studies in the contemporary context were

included; and (3) those articles for which the

full text was not available were discarded, a

crucial aspect to ensure the quality and

accessibility of information in the analysis. This

meticulous process ensures that the results of

the review are unbiased and representative of

the current state of research in the port sector

(Linnenluecke et al., 2019).

The literature review process in this study was

conducted comprehensively using multiple

secondary sources of information. Mainly

scientific databases were selected, such as

Scopus, which offers peer-reviewed literature

and has tools for monitoring the analysis and

visualization of research, with emphasis on

areas such as business management, human

resources, logistics and transportation (FECYT,

n. d.). In addition, a multidisciplinary database

created by Digital Science was incorporated,

which is free and covers a wide range of

knowledge fields (University of Navarra, 2018).

This combination of sources ensures that the

analysis has a comprehensive view of port

management research, considering both

academic and professional approaches. The

search strategy was designed to cover all

relevant databases and ensure an exhaustive

compilation of the scientific production. The

search criteria in the Scopus database were as

follows: Scopus search criteria: (TITLE-ABS-

KEY ( ( (“port sector” AND “organizational

capacity”) OR (“port sector” AND

“organizational strategies”) OR (“port sector”

AND “management”) ) OR TITLE-ABS-KEY

( ( ( (“port sector” AND “management”) OR

(“port sector” AND “organizational capacity”)

OR ( “port sector” AND “organizational

strategies”) ) ) ). Similarly, the same search

formula was used in the Dimensions database to

ensure the collection of relevant articles from

diverse sources of academic information. This

highly structured search strategy ensures that

the selected studies cover a wide range of topics

related to organizational management in the

port sector.

By applying the two search equations, a total of

110 records were obtained, which were

extracted and stored in Microsoft Excel® and

Jamovi® spreadsheet files. Subsequently, the

previously defined exclusion criteria were

applied to refine the results. As a next step, the

VOS Viewer tool was used to build and

visualize bibliometric networks, considering

journals, authors or individual publications to

create citation networks, bibliographic

coupling, co-citation or co-authorship, as well

as co-occurrence networks of important terms

in the sector (Arévalo, 2020). This methodology

not only allows visualizing the evolution of

research in the field but also facilitates the

identification of emerging areas and key

researchers, which is crucial to guide future

research in the port field. For the article

selection process, following the elements

established in the PRISMA 2020 statement, the

research authors worked autonomously

applying the search strategy and exclusion

criteria. Subsequently, the differences found

were established in consensus, to agree on

which papers should be selected (Riera, 2023).

A total of 40 records were used to analyze the

information in this scientific article. Indicators

were found that show the behavior of the

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publications of scientific productions by: years,

authors, languages, areas and countries. A

comprehensive quantitative and descriptive

analysis was conducted through the use of

Excel, Jamovi, and VOSviewer software,

focusing on 40 records of scientific publications

in the field of port management. This review

includes an examination of document types,

publication frequency, and the networks of

authors and keywords.

Results y Discussion

Publications by Type of Document and Year

The analysis revealed that the documents

studied are primarily categorized as articles,

conference papers, and reviews, as shown in

Table 1. The publication frequency for each

document type from 2013 to 2024 is as follows:

Table 1. Publications by Type of Document and Year

Type of

Documen

201

202

Total

Publicatio

Article

Conferenc

e Paper

Review

Total

Source: own elaboration.

The analysis reveals a notable increase in

publications during 2019 and 2020, particularly

within the realm of port sector research. This

pattern signifies heightened academic interest

and relevance during these years, possibly

linked to emerging trends or crises, such as

global economic shifts or environmental

concerns in port operations.

Figure 1: Illustrates the annual distribution of

document types, confirming the peak years of

publication.

The analysis also identified the primary

language of publication. The distribution across

languages shows that English is the

predominant language, followed by Spanish

and Portuguese.

Table 2. Publications by Language

Type of

Docume

nts

Engli

Portugu

ese

Spani

Total

Publicati

ons

Article

Confere

nce

Paper

Review

Total

Source: own elaboration

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The fact that most of the research is published

in English aligns with the global nature of the

port and logistics industries, which primarily

operate in English-dominated academic and

professional spheres. Citation analysis is crucial

for understanding the intellectual structure and

evolution of the field. In this review, three

citation patterns were explored: (1) Co-citation:

Examines how frequently two articles are cited

together, reflecting thematic connections; (2)

Bibliographic Coupling identifies articles that

reference a common set of documents, showing

shared scholarly influence; and, Direct

Citations tracks how often an article or author is

cited directly, providing insight into their

impact. The citation network by author allows

the identification of the most influential

contributors within the field of port

organizational management and helps visualize

the connections between different authors

through mutual citations. To this end, four

authors per article were considered, with a

minimum of one document per author. With

these two criteria, VOSViewer identified 70

authors. As seen in Figure 2, the most cited

authors in the scientific production of this field

include Acciaro et al. (2014) and Sdoukopoulos

et al. (2019).

Figure 2: Appointment Network by Country

One of the critical strategies port authorities

must consider ensuring the sustainability and

efficiency of port operations is energy

management (Acciaro et al., 2014). This

strategy requires not only detailed planning and

coordination but also aligns economic activities

within the port ecosystem. Prioritizing energy

efficiency allows ports to optimize their

operations, increase profits, and strengthen their

competitive position in a highly dynamic global

market. European port authorities have

identified energy consumption as the second

most critical environmental priority, prompting

the adoption of innovative policy frameworks.

These include implementing operational

practices and investing in cutting-edge

technologies to achieve energy savings and

enhance energy performance (Sdoukopoulos et

al., 2019). Recent empirical studies reinforce

the economic and operational benefits of energy

efficiency in ports. For example, ports

implementing renewable energy sources, such

as wind or solar energy, have reported cost

savings of up to 20% annually, while

simultaneously reducing their carbon footprint

(Merino et al., 2022). The integration of Internet

of Things (IoT) technologies further transforms

asset management, allowing ports to operate

more sustainably and efficiently. IoT-based

systems, supported by robust communication

infrastructures and data analytics, enable real-

time decision-making that enhances customer

satisfaction and reduces downtime, thereby

fostering a more competitive and resilient port

sector (Merino et al., 2022).

Port tariffs play a pivotal role in determining the

economic competitiveness of a country,

particularly in regions reliant on international

trade. Efficient tariff structures ensure that port

services remain attractive to global shipping

lines while fostering national economic growth.

There is an urgent need to review and adapt port

tariffs to address inefficiencies, particularly in

regions like Brazil, where outdated or

inconsistent tariffs hinder competitiveness

(Andriotti et al., 2021). Empirical evidence

underscores the importance of balancing tariffs

to attract higher cargo volumes while

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maintaining profitability. Studies in Latin

America reveal that ports with adaptive tariff

frameworks have achieved increased cargo

throughput, enabling them to capture a larger

share of global trade (Sousa et al., 2020).

Competitive tariff systems also incentivize

investments in modern infrastructure and

technology, which enhance port efficiency and

reduce operational costs. The linkage between

port tariffs and the broader logistics chain is

significant. High tariffs can cascade into

increased transportation costs, reducing the

cost-effectiveness of exported goods and

diminishing competitiveness in international

markets (González et al., 2020). Conversely,

ports that optimize tariffs create ripple effects

throughout the economy, enhancing the

competitiveness of local industries and

increasing their appeal as logistics hubs.

Case studies in Asia and Europe demonstrate

that ports implementing dynamic tariff

models—adjusted based on cargo type, volume,

and market conditions—have experienced

measurable benefits. For example, ports that

offer discounts for bulk shipments or prioritize

eco-friendly vessels have attracted sustainable

business practices and reduced environmental

impact (Merkel & Sløk, 2019). Additionally,

the introduction of digital tools to manage tariff

structures has streamlined administrative

processes and improved transparency, fostering

trust among stakeholders. Proactive

management approaches, which transition ports

from passive infrastructure owners to active

facilitators of activities and services, are crucial

for long-term sustainability. This involves

fostering collaboration with stakeholders,

digitizing operations, and adopting systematic

management practices to enhance overall

performance and service quality (Bautista et al.,

2021). For example, ports that integrate risk

management frameworks and implement

advanced monitoring technologies have

demonstrated reduced reaction times to

potential threats, thereby ensuring the

protection of critical infrastructure (González-

Gutiérrez et al., 2022).

A comparative study of Indonesian ports

underscores the Importance of public-private

partnerships and robust legal frameworks in

achieving efficient and competitive operations

(Puspitawati, 2014). Similarly, studies in

Europe reveal that strategic planning and

reduced dependence on government policies are

vital to operational efficiency and cost

reduction, which are key determinants of a

port’s long-term sustainability (Caldeirinha et

al., 2017). Gender diversity in port management

remains an underexplored yet critical aspect of

achieving equitable and efficient organizational

structures. Despite the increasing global

emphasis on gender inclusion, the maritime

industry, including port management, continues

to exhibit significant gender imbalances,

particularly in leadership roles (Halimah et al.,

2019). Cultural preferences, entrenched gender

stereotypes, and limited access to mentorship

programs often create barriers for women

aspiring to management positions.

The benefits of greater gender diversity in port

management are well-documented. Studies

have shown that organizations with more

gender-diverse leadership teams tend to exhibit

stronger financial performance, enhanced

innovation, and improved decision-making

processes (Ahmad et al., 2020). Diverse teams

bring varied perspectives, which are essential

for tackling complex challenges and fostering

creativity. Strategies to promote gender

diversity include implementing policies that

actively encourage the recruitment and

retention of women in maritime professions,

offering flexible work arrangements, and

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creating mentorship and leadership

development programs specifically tailored for

women. Establishing gender quotas in

leadership positions and fostering a culture of

inclusivity through training and awareness

programs can further help dismantle structural

barriers (Jiang et al., 2021).

Case studies from countries like Norway and

New Zealand, where gender inclusion policies

have been effectively implemented, provide

valuable insights. For example, the Port of

Auckland’s initiatives to promote gender

diversity include equal pay policies, gender-

balanced recruitment practices, and career

development workshops targeting women in the

maritime sector. Similarly, Norwegian ports

have introduced mentorship programs and

leadership training aimed at increasing female

representation in decision-making roles.

Collaborative efforts between industry

stakeholders, government bodies, and

educational institutions are crucial for driving

sustainable change. Encouraging young women

to pursue careers in maritime through targeted

outreach programs and scholarships can build a

pipeline of talent, ensuring a more gender-

balanced future for port management. By

addressing these challenges, the industry can

unlock untapped potential, foster innovation,

and achieve a more inclusive and sustainable

operational framework.

Environmental priorities for ports, as

highlighted in Ecoports environmental reports,

include air quality, noise reduction, and energy

efficiency (Boljat et al., 2020). Ports adopting

circular economy principles can become

innovation hubs, attracting new industries and

optimizing resource use (Jugovic et al., 2022).

For example, the implementation of wastewater

treatment systems and stricter ballast water

controls has proven effective in mitigating

environmental impacts (García et al., 2021).

Furthermore, the integration of Key

Performance Indicators (KPIs) enables a

comprehensive analysis of operational

performance and environmental sustainability

(Samanés et al., 2019). Environmental

Performance Indicators (EPIs) are increasingly

used to assess inland port performance. These

include management indicators (policies and

practices), operational indicators (carbon

footprint, water consumption), and condition

indicators (air and water quality) (Seguí et al.,

2016). Ports that incorporate climate adaptation

strategies, such as infrastructure rehabilitation

and improved drainage systems, demonstrate

greater resilience to climate-related risks

(Sharaan et al., 2024).

The integration of smart and green port

concepts has emerged as a transformative

approach to modernizing port operations while

addressing environmental and economic

challenges. Smart ports leverage advanced

technologies, such as the Internet of Things

(IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain,

and big data analytics, to streamline operations,

improve efficiency, and enhance decision-

making processes. These technologies enable

real-time tracking of cargo, predictive

maintenance of port equipment, and optimized

resource allocation, significantly reducing

operational costs and minimizing delays (Wang

et al., 2024). Green ports, on the other hand,

focus on implementing sustainable practices to

reduce environmental impacts and promote eco-

friendly operations. This includes the adoption

of renewable energy sources, electrification of

port machinery, implementation of shore-to-

ship power systems, and development of

carbon-neutral logistics chains. By prioritizing

environmental sustainability, green ports not

only reduce their carbon footprint but also align

with global sustainability goals, attracting

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environmentally conscious stakeholders

(Jugovic et al., 2022).

The convergence of smart and green port

strategies has resulted in innovative solutions

such as smart grids, automated cargo handling

systems, and integrated environmental

monitoring platforms. For instance, the Port of

Rotterdam has become a leading example of

this integration by deploying digital twin

technology to simulate port operations,

optimize logistics, and minimize environmental

impacts. Similarly, the Port of Los Angeles has

implemented clean energy initiatives and AI-

driven tools to manage emissions, showcasing

the potential of these dual strategies to achieve

operational excellence and sustainability. By

fostering collaboration among stakeholders,

investing in research and development, and

creating supportive regulatory frameworks,

ports can successfully integrate smart and green

concepts. This not only enhances their

competitive edge but also positions them as

leaders in the global transition toward

sustainable and intelligent port ecosystems.

The adoption of Business Process Management

(BPM) systems has significantly enhanced port

efficiency by optimizing processes, facilitating

decision-making, and fostering continuous

improvement (Saragiotis, 2019). For instance,

the use of Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA)

has emerged as an effective tool for

performance evaluation, enabling ports to

benchmark their operations and identify areas

for improvement (Pedersini et al., 2022). The

network of citations by country allows us to

visualize and understand how the different

scientific productions contribute to the

scientific literature in the context of port

organizational management, with an

international collaboration analyzing the

metrics and their impacts. Acciaro et al. (2013)

that has the greatest citation force in the

scientific field, in addition to identifying

opportunities for collaboration and

understanding the geographical distribution of

knowledge in the academic community. Where

26 countries are involved in scientific

productions on the subject of the port sector

such as: Germany, Australia, Belgium, Brazil,

China, Colombia, Croatia, Croatia, Denmark,

Ecuador, Egypt, Slovenia, Spain, the United

States, Greece, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy,

Malaysia, Norway, the Netherlands, Portugal,

Singapore, the United Kingdom and Sri Lanka,

Sweden and Turkey; only 3 of them have a

higher total binding strength, these are:

Belgium, Ireland and the Netherlands (Page et

al., 2021).

Co-authorship networks are a fundamental tool

for the bibliometric analysis of port

organizational management, as they offer a

comprehensive view of collaborative dynamics

within the field. By mapping these networks,

researchers can identify influential research

groups, assess the intensity of cooperation, and

uncover patterns that shape the development of

academic, scientific, or literary contributions.

Co-authorship reflects shared intellectual

contributions, mutual recognition, and the

pooling of diverse expertise, making it a

valuable indicator of collaboration and

innovation in the field of port organizational

management (Hilário et al., 2022). The co-

authorship network by authors represents a

critical bibliometric tool for understanding

collaborative dynamics in the field of port

organizational management. This network

highlights the interconnections among

researchers based on shared academic outputs,

enabling the identification of key contributors,

collaborative clusters, and thematic trends

within the discipline. Co-authorship is not only

a measure of intellectual synergy but also an

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indicator of the interdisciplinary and cross-

institutional approaches shaping the field

(Hilário et al., 2022). Empirical evidence

reveals that collaborative efforts among authors

often lead to higher citation impacts, as they

foster the integration of diverse perspectives

and methodologies (Apolinario & Guevara,

2021). For instance, a prominent group of

authors—Andriotti R.F., Vieira G.B.B., Sander

N.E., Campagnolo R.R., and Kliemann Neto

F.J.—has made significant contributions to

research on port administration. Their co-cited

works emphasize the economic implications of

port tariffs, lease contracts, and infrastructure

utilization, particularly in the context of the

Brazilian port system, such as the Port of Rio de

Janeiro. This research underscores how lease

agreements play a pivotal role in the financial

sustainability of port authorities, offering

insights into optimizing revenue streams and

operational efficiency (Apolinario & Guevara,

2021).

Figure 3: Co-authorship Network by Authors

Similarly, the collaboration of Acciaro, Ghiara,

and Cusano demonstrates a strong research

focus on sustainability and innovation within

the port sector. Their works, which have

garnered a substantial number of citations,

delve into the integration of renewable energy

sources, digital transformation, and green

logistics as critical factors driving the

modernization of port operations. These

findings highlight the strategic importance of

aligning port activities with global

sustainability goals, reinforcing the competitive

advantage of environmentally conscious ports

(Acciaro et al., 2014). The visualization of co-

authorship networks, as illustrated in Figure 3,

provides a valuable framework for detecting

influential research clusters and emerging

themes. This knowledge can inform future

research priorities, facilitate targeted funding

allocation, and foster collaborative initiatives

among academia, industry, and policymakers.

The co-authorship network by country serves as

an essential tool for mapping international

collaboration in port research, revealing

patterns of knowledge exchange and regional

specialization. This analysis allows for the

evaluation of each country’s influence based on

metrics such as degree centrality, betweenness

centrality, and proximity. By examining these

metrics, it is possible to identify countries that

act as hubs of innovation and collaboration in

the global port sector (Leyton et al., 2023).

Figure 4: Co-authorship Network by Country

Empirical data, as presented in Figure 4,

highlights Spain as the leading country in

collaborative port research, with ten

publications reflecting a strong tradition of

academic and industrial partnerships. Spain’s

prominence is attributed to its robust maritime

infrastructure and its role as a gateway for trade

between Europe, Africa, and Latin America.

Brazil follows closely with nine documents,

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reflecting its strategic position as a key player

in South American trade routes and its growing

investment in port modernization initiatives.

Other countries, such as the United Kingdom,

Belgium, China, Croatia, Ecuador, Egypt,

Ireland, and Malaysia, contribute significantly

to the global research landscape, albeit with a

smaller volume of publications. For example,

collaborative studies between European and

Asian researchers have explored the application

of smart port technologies and digital

transformation strategies, emphasizing the

importance of global knowledge sharing in

addressing complex challenges such as climate

change, supply chain disruptions, and

geopolitical tensions (Jugovic et al., 2022).

Notably, Ecuador’s inclusion in the network

indicates a growing interest in port research

within the context of Latin American trade

dynamics. Collaborative efforts with countries

like Spain and Brazil are paving the way for

studies on regional competitiveness, regulatory

frameworks, and sustainable development in

the Ecuadorian port sector. This underscores the

potential for leveraging international

partnerships to drive innovation and capacity-

building in emerging economies. By fostering

transnational collaborations, co-authorship

networks contribute to the advancement of

scientific knowledge, the dissemination of best

practices, and the formulation of evidence-

based policies. This not only enhances the

academic impact of research but also ensures its

relevance to real-world challenges in the port

and logistics sectors.

The keyword co-occurrence network is a

valuable analytical tool used to examine

relationships between key concepts in port

organizational management. This visualization

helps identify thematic clusters and emerging

research trends, enhancing the understanding of

interrelated topics. In this study, prominent

keywords include “management,” “port

management,” “strategies,” “organizational

capacity,” “logistics,” “sustainability,”

“technology,” and “port sector.” Additionally,

secondary keywords such as “port

performance,” “port strategy,” “efficiency,”

“environmental management,” and “maritime

industry” emerged as significant themes,

reinforcing the multidisciplinary nature of port

studies (Figure 5).

Figure 5: Keyword co-occurrence network

This bibliometric study shows that port

organizational management faces multiple

challenges today, including increasing global

competition, sustainability, technological

innovation, staff motivation and corporate

social responsibility. In this context, port

efficiency depends not only on infrastructure

and technology, but also on the ability of ports

to adapt to market demands and international

regulatory changes. As international trade

expands and cargo volumes increase, the ability

of ports to operate efficiently and sustainably

becomes a determining factor in the

competitiveness of national economies. In this

regard, the literature reviewed highlights the

need for advanced management strategies to

balance economic growth with environmental

and social responsibility. Roos & Kliemann

(2017) and Acciaro et al. (2013) evidence that

the exclusion of economic factors in the

measurement of environmental performance

limits the ability of ports to efficiently manage

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sustainability. Furthermore, they highlight how

energy management in European ports such as

Hamburg and Genoa have advanced through the

use of innovative technologies such as shore

power and alternative fuels, which significantly

reduce carbon emissions and the environmental

impact of port operations.

In this regard, the need to adapt port operations

to more stringent environmental standards is

imminent, considering the growing number of

international regulations on emissions and

energy efficiency, such as the provisions of the

International Maritime Organization (IMO).

Failure to integrate these criteria into port

management can negatively affect the long-

term competitiveness and sustainability of

ports. From a strategic perspective, Esmer et al.

(2016) and O’Connor et al. (2023) argue that

port competitiveness should not be analyzed

solely from an economic or methodological

perspective, but should consider intangible

factors such as the perception of service quality,

operational efficiency and the ability of ports to

innovate in their business models. In this sense,

long-term strategic planning is essential to

ensure efficient and resilient operations in the

face of global trade fluctuations. The findings of

these studies suggest that ports must develop

critical capabilities to remain competitive,

which involves modernizing infrastructure,

optimizing logistics processes, and adopting

advanced technologies. On this point, Gerrero

et al. (2024) and Bonamigo et al. (2023)

highlight the fundamental role of digitization,

Big Data and artificial intelligence in the

transformation of ports towards the **smart

ports** model, within the framework of

Industry 4.0.

The concept of **Lean 4.0**, linked to the

circular economy, is presented as a key strategy

to optimize port sustainability. The application

of these principles allows the reduction of

resource waste, improvement in energy

efficiency and optimization of logistics

processes, fundamental elements for the

competitiveness of the sector in an environment

of increasing environmental and regulatory

pressure. The management of climate impacts

in port operations is another of the fundamental

issues addressed in the literature. Azarkamand

et al. (2020), O’Keeffe et al. (2020) and

Beškovnik & Bajec (2015) warn about the

vulnerability of ports to extreme climate events

and the need to implement mitigation and

adaptation strategies. Key measures include the

reduction of carbon footprint, the

implementation of resilient infrastructure and

the adoption of low-emission technologies.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has also

taken on a central role in port sustainability.

Ports must not only minimize their

environmental impact, but also contribute to the

social development of the communities in

which they operate. This involves creating labor

inclusion programs, improving working

conditions and promoting ethical and

sustainable business practices.

From an organizational perspective, Andrade et

al. (2023) and Flores et al. (2023) agree that

human capital is a determining factor in the

operational efficiency of ports. Staff motivation

and talent management directly influence

productivity and service quality. In this sense,

worker empowerment and continuous training

are essential strategies to strengthen the

commitment of human talent and improve

organizational performance. Somensi et al.

(2017) and Diniz et al. (2024) complement this

view by noting that the lack of alignment

between management practices and strategic

objectives can negatively affect port

performance. They further discuss how the

maritime sector is aligning its operations with

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the **Sustainable Development Goals

(SDGs)**, highlighting the importance of

adopting coordinated strategies to improve the

efficiency and sustainability of the port sector.

This bibliometric study has been strengthened

by data triangulation, which has allowed

validation of the findings through different

sources and methodological approaches. The

combination of case studies, statistical analyses

and systematic reviews has allowed for a more

robust assessment of trends and challenges in

port management. The use of empirical sources

that address different dimensions of the sector-

from sustainability and digitalization to

competitiveness and talent management-allows

for a holistic view that contributes significantly

to knowledge in this field. This approach

ensures that the findings are not only relevant in

the present but also serve as a basis for future

research.

The analysis conducted highlights that port

management today is facing a profound

transformation driven by digitization,

sustainability and the need for innovative

management strategies. The literature reviewed

indicates that harbor needs to adopt a holistic

approach combining operational efficiency,

environmental management, technological

innovation and human talent development. It is

critical to continue to explore how digitization

and automation can optimize port processes

without compromising employment and

sustainability. Also, the impact of

environmental regulations on port

competitiveness and the effectiveness of

climate change mitigation strategies in the

maritime sector should be further explored.

Therefore, this bibliometric study provides an

updated view of the challenges and

opportunities in port management, as well as a

solid basis for the development of new lines of

research that contribute to the advancement of

knowledge in this critical area for global trade.

Port organizational management must

continually improve environmental

performance assessment techniques. To this

end, efficient port administration must integrate

both technical and economic considerations in

environmental management decision-making.

In this context, innovation aimed at increasing

energy efficiency and strengthening port

competitiveness becomes strategically relevant

in an environment of growing environmental

awareness (Acciaro et al., 2014; Roos &

Kliemann, 2017; Andrade et al., 2018). This

analysis suggests that strategic management

should focus on both tangible resources, such as

physical capacity, as well as organizational and

intangible capabilities, to ensure an adequate

supply of capacity in the future (Esmer et al.,

2016); O’Connor et al., 2023). The literature

supports that the development of organizational

competencies enables better adaptation to

structural and regulatory changes, contributing

to a more resilient and sustainable management.

In this sense, the introduction of new

technologies emerges as a central axis for the

optimization of port management. While

technological progress improves operational

efficiency, it also poses challenges in terms of

organizational adaptation and real-time data

management. The implementation of Lean

strategies in ports can facilitate the

identification and reduction of waste, foster

innovation and develop a culture of continuous

improvement, aligned with sustainability

objectives (Gerrero et al., 2024; Bonamigo et

al., 2023). Ports must also adapt to changing

climatic conditions to protect both their

infrastructure and nearby communities. This

highlights the need for increased climate change

awareness and preparedness among port

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managers (Azarkamand et al., 2020; O’Keeffe

et al., 2020; Beškovnik & Bajec, 2015). Climate

mitigation and adaptation strategies should be

integrated into port planning, ensuring

resilience to extreme events and minimizing

environmental impacts.

Likewise, the study concludes that

organizational motivation is a key factor in

increasing employee engagement and

improving the management of productive

resources, which directly contributes to the

achievement of strategic objectives. Labor

empowerment encourages the active

participation of workers in decision making,

thus optimizing organizational performance

(Andrade et al., 2023; Flores et al., 2023).

Finally, the gap between theory and practice in

port performance evaluation underscores the

need for further research and alignment in the

implementation of performance indicators

adapted to operational realities. This suggests

that sustainability is consolidating as a central

axis in port management. Despite progress,

challenges persist in the effective integration of

the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in

port operations, evidencing the need for

strategic policies and interdisciplinary

collaborative initiatives to move towards

greater sustainability (Somnensi, 2016; Diniz et

al., 2024).

Conclusiones

Ports are at the core of global trade and

economic development, yet they face pressing

challenges, including sustainability,

competition, and technological innovation. The

transition towards smart, sustainable ports

requires a multidimensional approach,

integrating environmental, technological, and

managerial strategies. The implementation of

innovative technologies—such as automation,

digitalization, and artificial intelligence (AI)—

is crucial for enhancing operational efficiency

and global competitiveness. However, despite

advancements in these areas, many ports still

struggle to fully incorporate sustainability into

their core operations. A key challenge is the

integration of sustainable practices without

compromising economic viability.

Digitalization, Big Data, and AI play a

transformative role in optimizing port logistics,

predictive maintenance, and real-time decision-

making, reducing inefficiencies and minimizing

environmental footprints. Ports adopting AI-

driven management systems can achieve

significant reductions in fuel consumption,

emissions, and operational delays.

Nevertheless, the gap between technology

adoption and effective implementation remains,

requiring further research on scalability and

cost-effectiveness in different port contexts.

Climate change exacerbates vulnerabilities in

port infrastructure, making resilience planning

a priority. Rising sea levels, extreme weather

events, and shifting trade routes necessitate

robust climate adaptation strategies. Carbon

footprint reduction, through the use of

alternative fuels, shore power, and green

corridors, is essential for ports seeking to align

with international sustainability frameworks

such as the Sustainable Development Goals

(SDGs) and the International Maritime

Organization’s (IMO) decarbonization targets.

Furthermore, corporate social responsibility

(CSR) is becoming a key pillar in sustainable

port management, promoting stakeholder

engagement, social inclusion, and

environmental stewardship. Employee

motivation and empowerment also play a

crucial role in improving port management and

ensuring the successful implementation of

sustainable practices. Human capital

development, through continuous training and

technological literacy programs, enhances

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workforce adaptability to digital

transformations and sustainability initiatives. A

highly engaged workforce contributes to

increased operational efficiency and fosters a

culture of innovation, which is vital for meeting

strategic port objectives.

Future research should delve deeper into the

correlation between environmental

management practices and port performance

indicators, particularly in refining evaluation

methodologies for sustainability metrics.

Moreover, further investigation is needed into

the role of AI, Big Data, and blockchain in port

operations, particularly in predictive analytics,

supply chain transparency, and security.

Climate adaptation strategies should also be

explored in more detail, focusing on resilient

infrastructure, risk assessment models, and

socio-economic preparedness of surrounding

communities. Additionally, addressing the

existing gaps in SDG integration within port

operations requires interdisciplinary

collaboration and strategic policy design,

ensuring that ports become key facilitators of

global sustainability objectives. This

comprehensive approach will pave the way for

ports that are not only economically efficient

but also environmentally responsible and

technologically advanced, contributing to the

long-term resilience and competitiveness of

global maritime trade.

Acknowledgements

Peer review is an essential component in the

production of scientific knowledge. The authors

recognize the importance of this process and

thank the reviewers for their commitment to

academic excellence.

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