The opportunities offered by digitisation for improved control and management of the port will be grabbed with both hands. It goes without saying that security is an absolute prerequisite. For example, the Harbour Master Management Information System (HaMIS) works as a digital network. It is an interactive system in which all shipping traffic is planned, monitored and administered. Portbase provides a Port Community System (PCS). This is a digital solution for the administration and document flow that are part and parcel of freight transport, creating greater efficiency, lower planning costs, better and more transparent planning, faster cargo handling and fewer errors.
But we will not be resting on our laurels. Under the direction of the Port of Rotterdam Authority, IT partners IBM, Cisco, Esri and Axians have been working together to provide an Internet of Things (IoT) platform. The Port Authority uses this cloud platform to collect and process data from sensors located throughout the port. In this way, real-time information about infrastructure, water and air comes in, enabling the port of Rotterdam to improve its services. The ultimate aim is to create a so-called ‘digital twin’ of the port in 4D, i.e. a digital representation of the actual, physical port.