Smart Ports Seminar Touts Technology, Celebrates People

The big takeaway from AAPA’s 2020 Smart Ports Seminar in Los Angles, Feb. 5-6, is that while there is huge potential in technology solutions to drive cargo efficiency and growth, and improve customer service, it’s still the people behind the technology that make the biggest difference.

“Technology will never replace people; it’ll only be as successful as the people using it,” summarized AAPA Vice President of Member Engagement Meredith Martino after the meeting. “At the end of the day, trust, collaboration and planning are the keys to success in today’s interconnected digital world.”

Approximately 75 attendees and speakers participated in the information technology-focused event, arriving from locations ranging from Boston to Vancouver, Canada, and Guam to Australia. According to Ms. Martino, among the sessions that appeared to create the greatest audience “buzz” were on automation, workforce development and cybersecurity. Other leading seminar sessions focused on the role of IT professionals in hazard recovery, cruise industry technology, advanced GIS applications and implementing an interconnected supply chain.

Seminar sponsors included Saab Technologies, Wabtec Corporation, E2open and eX2 Technology, and Seaport OPX exhibited at the event.

Ms. Martino noted that another seminar takeaway is not to let the proverbial cart get before the horse. “Start with a problem statement, rather than the perceived solution, when turning to technology. Then, think big but start small to be sure that the technology solution you choose is implemented in a way that can be scaled up.”

To view the 2020 Smart Ports presentations posted on the AAPA website, click here.