Performance and quality indexes in the evaluation of the terminal activity: A dynamic approach

Abstract

The aim of the paper is to discuss the application of performance indexes in the evaluation of the terminal activities that go beyond an only throughput. The research is mainly based on the assumption that the current port organisational model doesn't assure that Port Authorities (PAs) are an effective power for influencing the terminal activities strongly enough to reach their own public goals (e.g. sustainability, local competitiveness) altogether with the terminal (private) goals; moreover, in several situations, the lack of proper indexes makes the PA unable to understand if the terminal operator is performing at its best or if it could reach a better result.To cope with this situation and assuming the port authority's perspective, some indicators are discussed both from a theoretical and from an applied point of view. Moreover the paper discusses how the performance measures, taking into account the dynamic elements, could be inserted in the concession contract. The inclusion of the proposed indicators in the concession agreements will allow the PAs to introduce incentives that can dynamically change in accordance with the market cycle, assuring an increase of the terminal competitiveness as well as the pursuing of PA's own goals.