Abstract
Performance assessment is a fundamental tool to successfully monitor and manage logistics and transport systems. In the field of Short Sea Shipping (SSS), the performance of the various maritime initiatives should be analyzed to assess the best way to achieve efficiency and guide related policies. This study proposes a quantitative methodology which can serve as a decision-support tool in the preliminary assessment and comparison of alternative SSS networks. The research is executed via a Mediterranean case study that compares a hypothetical Mediterranean ro-ro SSS network developed in the framework of a past Euro-Mediterranean cooperation project with the network of existing ro-ro liner services operating in the area. Performance benchmarking of the two networks is performed using a set of quantitative Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and applying a factor-cluster analysis to produce homogeneous clusters of services based on the relevant variables while accounting for sample heterogeneity. Quantitative results mostly confirm the overall better performance of the prospective network and demonstrate that using KPIs and factor-cluster analysis to investigate the performance of maritime networks can provide policymakers with a preliminary wealth of knowledge that can help in setting targeted policy for SSS-oriented initiatives.
Highlights
Interest in performance assessment of logistics systems has significantly grown in recent years
Application The described methodology was applied to the two networks in order to identify well-defined groups of O/D connections that can be benchmarked against one another to put into light inefficiencies and/or proper functioning
This study has proposed a quantitative methodology based on the combination of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and factor-cluster analysis to be used as a decision-support tool when preliminarily assessing and comparing the transport performance of alternative Short Sea Shipping (SSS) networks
Summary
Interest in performance assessment of logistics systems has significantly grown in recent years. A thorough analysis of transport alternatives to assess how efficiency is best attained is believed expedient to guide effectively SSS-oriented policymaking [53]. In this regard, the present study intends to provide a contribution to the literature by proposing a quantitative methodology which can serve as a decision-support tool in the preliminary assessment and comparison of the performance of alternative SSS networks. The point of view taken in the analysis is that of a hypothetical superordinate decision-making body who, based on the efficiency parameters that characterize alternative transport options, can choose in which direction to orient its transport policies. The second category focuses on the various processes that take place in a supply chain [10, 36, 50] while the third category differentiates performance measures based on planning levels: strategic, tactical and operational
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
