The Need for a Modern Data Platform

As the intermodal and marine terminal industry continues to grapple with the challenges of automation and digital transformation, it has become clear that a significant disconnect exists between the industry’s appetite for innovation and the foundational technology currently in place at many terminals. A recent survey conducted by Tideworks Technology Inc. and Port Technology International (PTI) sheds light on the state of technology adoption in the industry, revealing a gap between strategic priorities and actual adoption. The survey, which polled intermodal operators across North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America, found that 73% of terminals with a network of 11 or more view AI, automation, and digital transformation as critical to future competitiveness. However, the survey also revealed that only 36% of these terminals are currently using AI to collect and analyze operational data. This disparity highlights the need for a modern data platform that can provide real-time visibility, data accuracy, and analytics expertise.

Operational Pain Points

The survey identified several operational pain points that are directly obstructing the systems, processes, and mindset shifts required for digital transformation. These include:

• Capacity and yard utilization as the number one operational challenge across 63% of intermodal terminal respondents
• Real-time visibility, data accuracy, and limited analytics expertise cited as major barriers to progress
• Integration challenges with external partners and customers as the top data management pain point for 60% of intermodal terminal respondents

These issues point to a demand for foundational systems that address today’s operational pressures and better support real-time visibility, smooth integration, and smarter capacity management across terminal networks.

Unlocking the Value of AI and Automation

According to Chad Van Derrick, vice president of software product management at Tideworks, “The appetite for AI and automation is growing, but readiness is the real hurdle. To unlock the value of these technologies, terminals need to invest in the basics: a modern data platform, clear governance and optimization tools that turn information into action.”

Key Findings from the PTI/Tideworks Emerging Tech Survey

The survey uncovered several key findings that highlight progress, challenges, and opportunities in technology adoption. These include:

1. 84% of intermodal terminals with a network of 10 or less say digitalization is their top technology goal, yet 54% still rely on spreadsheets and manual entry to collect and analyze operational data.
2. 14% of intermodal terminal respondents are using AI to collect and analyze data, though 42% of intermodal terminals cited ongoing challenges with data accuracy and 40% cited limited staff expertise in data analytics.
3. 44% of respondents cite sustainability/green tech as a top priority technology initiative.
4. 65% of intermodal terminals respondents report using TOS and 73% report using data dashboards and reporting, but 44% lack real-time visibility in managing data.
5. Adoption of software is growing with 64% of terminals using automated gate systems, 51% using optical character recognition (OCR)/ optical feature recognition (OFR) and 53% using vehicle booking systems.

The Path Forward

To bridge the gap between innovation and technology adoption, terminals need to invest in foundational systems that address today’s operational pressures. This includes investing in a modern data platform, clear governance and optimization tools, and providing training and support for staff to develop analytics expertise. By doing so, terminals can unlock the value of AI and automation and create smarter, more resilient operations.

Real-World Example

A real-world example of a terminal that has successfully implemented a modern data platform is the Port of Los Angeles’s (POLA) implementation of a new TOS solution. The POLA’s modern TOS solution provides real-time visibility, data accuracy, and analytics expertise, enabling the terminal to optimize capacity management and improve yard utilization. Similarly, other terminals can benefit from implementing similar solutions to improve their operations and stay competitive in the industry.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the industry’s disconnect between innovation and technology adoption is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. By investing in foundational systems and providing training and support for staff, terminals can unlock the value of AI and automation and create smarter, more resilient operations. The future of the intermodal and marine terminal industry depends on its ability to adopt and effectively utilize emerging technologies.