The Principal-Agent Theoretical Ramifications on Digital Transformation of Ports in Emerging Economies

Benjamin Mosses Sakita (), Berit Irene Helgheim and Svein Bråthen
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Benjamin Mosses Sakita: Faculty of Logistics, Molde University College, Specialized University in Logistics, 6402 Molde, Norway
Berit Irene Helgheim: Faculty of Logistics, Molde University College, Specialized University in Logistics, 6402 Molde, Norway
Svein Bråthen: Faculty of Logistics, Molde University College, Specialized University in Logistics, 6402 Molde, Norway

Logistics, 2024, vol. 8, issue 2, 1-39

Abstract: Background : Scholarly literature indicates a slow pace at which maritime ports fully embrace digital transformation (DT). The reasons to this are largely anecdotal and lack solid empirical grounding. This inhibits an overall understanding of DT’s tenets and the development of evidence-based policies and targeted actions. Methods : This study deployed a qualitative case study strategy to unpack the challenges of undertaking DT through the lens of principal-agent theory (PAT). Results : Analysis of data collected through 13 semi-structured interviews from a port’s value chain stakeholders revealed five thematic challenges that contradict successful implementation of DT. These included interagency constraints and system ownership tussles; system sabotage and prevalent corruption; prevalent human agency in port operations; cultural constraints; and political influence on port governance. Conclusions : To address these challenges, the study proposes a four-stage empirically grounded DT strategy framework that guides both practitioners and policymakers through DT endeavors. The framework includes: (1) the port’s value chain mapping, (2) stakeholder engagement, (3) resource mobilization, and (4) effective monitoring. For scholars, we provide an avenue for testing statistical significance of association and causality among the identified challenges.

Keywords: digital innovation diffusion; digital transformation strategy; stakeholder engagement; theory elaboration (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: L8 L80 L81 L86 L87 L9 L90 L91 L92 L93 L98 L99 M1 M10 M11 M16 M19 R4 R40 R41 R49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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