Assessing enablers for smart technologies in maritime and shipping logistics: a GINA approach

Abstract

This study aims to assess the key enablers facilitating the adoption of smart technologies in maritime and shipping logistics using the Grey Influence Analysis (GINA) approach. As maritime supply chains become digitalised at a fast pace, technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, Blockchain, Big Data analytics and Digital Twins have become significant drivers of efficiency, sustainability and resilience in operations; however, their successful implementation is contingent on an interconnected set of technological, environmental, economic, ecological and social enablers. The paper identifies the major enablers influencing the adoption of smart technology in maritime logistics through an extensive literature review and professional validation. Expert opinion was collected using a structured questionnaire, and the GINA methodology was applied to identify causal relationships and determine the relative importance of each enabler. This methodology enables the analysis of a large number of responses without information loss, addressing the shortcomings of conventional approaches such as Interpretive Structural Modelling and DEMATEL. The findings identify the most potent enablers that play a significant role in the digital transformation of maritime logistics systems. The insights generated will inform policymakers, port actors and logistics managers of the strategic areas of interest for investment and for devising sustainable, smart logistics ecosystems. By integrating intelligent technologies with a rigorous causal analysis approach, the paper contributes to the current body of knowledge on maritime digitalization.