Operational Digital Twin for Smart Ports and Terminals

1. What is NextPort, and what problem does it solve for ports and terminals?

Manuel: NextPort helps port and terminal operators bring fragmented operational information into one trusted, real-time view of activity. We work with existing systems to connect the data they rely on and make it easier to understand what is happening across their field of operations. This gives operators better support in making decisions and creates a stronger foundation for long-term planning.

2. How does NextPort work?

Manuel: NextPort is an operational digital twin which brings together data from existing systems, equipment, processes, and workflows to create a real-time digital representation of the operating environment. That information can then be viewed together in context, rather than as separate systems and dashboards. The goal is to give teams a more complete and trusted picture of what is happening, so they respond to bottlenecks and on-the-ground issues quickly and make better informed decisions.

The result is real-time operational visibility that helps teams identify bottlenecks, respond to operational issues, and make better-informed decisions.

3. How does NextPort support marine terminals?

Manuel: At the terminal level, the focus is on terminal operations optimization, helping teams coordinate vessel, yard, gate, equipment and workforce activity more effectively and with fewer conflicts.

4. Does NextPort replace a terminal operating system or other existing technology?

Manuel: No. NextPort is designed to modernize operations by connecting and adding value to the systems that a port or terminal already uses. Rather than requiring a large-scale replacement of systems, we create a common operational picture across those systems and provide additional visibility and decision support. This makes it possible to introduce new capabilities progressively without disrupting live operations.

5. How can NextPort help improve efficiency and throughput for terminals?

Manuel: Many operational inefficiencies begin when teams do not have a common understanding of what is happening across the terminal. By bringing vessel, yard, gate, equipment, and workflow information together, NextPort makes it possible for operators to easily identify conflicts or bottlenecks early and respond before they become system-wide issues. Over time, this support allows for better use of existing capacity and a more consistent performance for the terminal.

6. How does NextPort support decision making without replacing human judgment?

Manuel: The people running ports and terminals bring operational knowledge that technology cannot replace. NextPort gives those teams a better understanding of their operational landscape, helping them gain a clearer view of what’s happening so that they can make decisions with confidence. In the longer term, NextPort learns from operations and data generated about the gap between planned and actual operations can help identify opportunities for strategic interventions that can improve longer term efficiency. NextPort’s Digital Twin supports the decision making process, while operators remain in control of the decisions themselves.

7. What makes NextPort’s approach different?

Manuel: NextPort combines digital twin technology, operational data integration and practical knowledge of port and terminal operations. We focus on connecting fragmented information across systems and putting it into a form that people can easily understand and use in their day-to-day operations, as well as their longer-term planning. As part of Moffatt & Nichol, NextPort draws on more than 80 years of engineering expertise, which gives us a unique perspective on connecting digital and physical infrastructure in complex port and terminal environments.

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This is the internationally recognised standard for an Information Security Management System (ISMS). It sets out the requirements for how an organisation should identify, manage, and reduce risks related to information and data security.

This certification reinforces our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of information security, governance, and continuous improvement.

It reflects the hard work of colleagues across the business and our commitment to earning and maintaining the trust of those we work with every day.

Find out more in the video below.

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The digital twin is a virtual, real-time representation of terminal operations.

It enables online visualization of activities across the equipment fleet — including terminal tractors, container handlers, and STS and RTG cranes — supporting improved situational awareness, performance monitoring and operational decision-making.

All terminal equipment is fitted with the Black Dog card, a telemetry device developed in-house by STI’s Reliability team. The system enables the real-time transmission of operational data to a central platform, supporting both operations and maintenance planning.

The expanded use of telemetry is also expected to support more sustainable operations.

By optimizing transport routes and reducing fuel consumption and equipment wear, the platform has the potential to lower emissions and contribute to a reduced carbon footprint.

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Photo Courtesy of San Antonio Terminal Internacional

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