The key to ensuring the unimpeded flow of cargo through West Coast ports, and specifically the Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Long Beach, is to recognize we have a problem. It has been suggested in some circles that the implementation of new technologies is the magic cure-all, the silver bullet if you will, that will solve all of our congestion problems. That is a flat out, false assumption. The real problem with technology integration is the lack of industry standardization, competing interests, and inappropriate technology applications. All have contributed to the inability to maximize container throughput.
Technology is only one small part of the problem.
However, to provide some real insight to this perspective, consider the following. All fifteen utilize complexly different major systems of technology, some new and some dating back 15 years or more. The ILWU has attempted over the years to convince terminal operators that, as in major Asian and European ports, a continuity of systems is necessary to achieve maximum efficiency. However, whether it be competing interests between different terminal operators, or simply because cost precludes the replacement of these systems, the Union has not had much success at attempted persuasion. While the ILWU recognizes that the choice of operating systems lies squarely with each terminal operator, there are some very real and solid reasons for the Union to request that technology implementation achieve a continuity between all parties.