Exploring The Relationship Between Smart Port Competitiveness And Factors Under Technology-Organization-Environment (T-O-E) Framework：A Structural Equation Modeling Approach

The maritime industry's 4.0 revolution is advancing rapidly, requiring ports to continuously innovate and evolve. Ports must not only become smarter to improve efficiency, sustainability, and safety but also enhance interconnectivity with other ports. To stay competitive and boost productivity, ports must develop digital capabilities and evolve into "smart" ports. However, despite the increasing importance of smart ports, research in this area remains limited. This study used the Technology-Organization-Environment (T-O-E) framework to identify seven key factors and examine the interrelationships between policy support, port resources, technology compatibility and security, ICT integration, operational structures, and smart port competitiveness. A survey conducted among stakeholders in the port industry collected 320 responses, exploring the impact of ICT on port competitiveness. Data analysis was performed using structural equation modeling (SEM) through AMOS software. The findings reveal significant positive correlations between policy support, port resources, security, port operations, and ICT integration, confirming ICT integration's positive impact on smart port competitiveness. Additionally, ICT integration significantly enhances smart port competitiveness. This study enhances understanding of how ICT integration influences port development and competitiveness. The results provide actionable insights for governments, port practitioners, and policymakers to prioritize smart port upgrades and support national and regional development objectives.