Improving transportation performance without major capital investment: a preliminary analysis of operations in the port of Rio Grande, Brazil

Abstract

Traditionally both developed and developing countries have sought to improve the performance of their port operations — and their transportation systems in general — with major capital investment. However, with the difficult financial conditions faced by many countries today, particularly developing nations, the alternative of new capital investment may no longer be possible. The authors feel that it is possible to significantly improve transportation performance in developing countries without new capital funding. The paper described research in the Port of Rio Grande, Brazil which substantiates the belief of the authors. The research concludes that operational transportation improvements in the Port of Rio Grande can result in substantial savings without new capital investment. A preliminary description of the needed changes to the transportation operations, management control systems and the management structure is provided.