The supply chain optimization and integration and their role in ports efficiency and function

Abstract

This thesis primarily aims to examine the logical relationships among the integration strategies of seaport terminals along with the supply chain processes and strategies, and the antecedents and consequences of the integration strategies. In this thesis integration strategy is termed Port Supply Chain Integration (PSCI) and the antecedents and the consequences of PSCI were identified and termed as Port Performance (PP). The analysis of this thesis is developed in a four-way model, where each part covers a different dimension of the analysis regarding the influence of the supply chain optimization and integration regarding the efficiency and the function of ports. In the first part we include a theoretical and classification and analysis regarding ports efficiency with information regarding ports policies, competition and performance of ports, governance strategies and ports role in the Supply Chain Optimization and Integration Strategy Following this part, a theoretical and historical analysis takes place by analyzing 4 different strategic models regarding the function of ports. A Porters analysis model, the port selection criteria model, the resource-based theory and the Supply Chain Management Theory (SCMT) consist these four theoretical models and strategies based on which this thesis analysis is based. Moreover, in the third chapter of this paper there is an extensive analysis regarding the Supply Chain Integration strategy and its role in the function of a port. To deep dive there is an extensive approach regarding the Supply Chain Management and Integration Ports Supply Chain Integration, a reference to the casual relationships and to the motives and circumstances of Ports. The final part of this thesis consists the conclusion of the whole analysis. Conclusions are presented in a simple way so the reader and the researchers to be able to deep dive in the knowledge helpful for him and to be able to extract the data and information that he may need for a future analysis. At this point I would like to mention that this thesis analysis remains a theoretical document and theoretical approach regarding the main strategies that currently exist when it comes to the efficient management of a Port. Of course, every port in the world may have special needs and customized strategies and measures should be adopted to cover these needs. This paper only provides a logical based analysis where the future researcher may stand, analyze and based on his needs extract future conclusions for his analysis.