Development of a multidimensional performance evaluation model for container terminals at Marmara Sea

Abstract

The continuous success of container terminals in a highly competitive environment depends on their ability to compendiously evaluate their activities and to produce effective solutions for the required areas. At this point, there is a need for a comprehensive performance measurement model where terminal activities can be evaluated in a multifaceted way. In particular, given the high throughput volume of the Marmara Sea terminals, there is a lack of a specific model for this region. This study aims to address this deficiency by developing a holistic multi-dimensional framework, Container Terminal Performance Evaluation Method (CTPEM). The theoretical roots of this study go through a three-pillar structure formed by Transaction Cost Economies, Resource-Based View, and Corporate Social Responsibility Theory and consider the opinions of industry professionals. Analytical Network Process, which takes into account the interdependencies among dimensions, is incorporated into the CTPEM model to highlight the priorities of performance dimensions. Results show that Logistics & Operational dimension is the first with 33.7%, Corporate Social dimension is remarkably the second with 31.2% overtaking Financial dimension with 26.7%, which is an exceptional case. The environmental dimension with a concern is given a short shrift with 8.3.