Key aspects of digital twin technology for developing sustainable smart ports

Abstract

The implementation of digital twin technology in ports represents a stage in the process of their digitalization. Although not that new, the technology has huge potential to help the transition to sustainable smart ports, which is due to the development of technologies such as the Internet of things, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, etc. The digital twin technology creates a number of advantages for complex port systems such as simulation, verification, monitoring, optimization, diagnosis and prediction, and helps decision making. The paper aims at focusing the attention of the parties concerned (managers, IT specialists, developers, participants in port processes) on some critical moments in the implementation of the digital twin technology, which are of crucial importance for developing sustainable smart ports. At the same time, the discussion justifies the need for continuous development of new knowledge, skills and abilities of managers and specialists to manage existing and potential bottlenecks through in-depth training with a focus on modern technologies. It also points out the implementation of the digital twin technology as a consistent and iterative process. In summary, the overcoming of technological and financial difficulties requires serious changes in the organizational culture of the companies as well as simultaneous development of hard and soft skills of all parties concerned and participating in the development of the ports.