## 3 Smart Port Performance Indicators  
Understanding performance requires identifying a causal model that specifies how current activities might impact future results. A performance measure is a leading indicator of performance only if the organization understands and masters its causal links and can replicate the outcome in the future. While not all measurements are quantitative, it is usually necessary to use quantitative measures for comparison purposes, as qualitative measures can be subject to different interpretations. This concern can be addressed within our framework. NCMs address the challenge of using qualitative measures by converting expert opinions and qualitative inputs into quantitative values, allowing for structured comparison. NCMs handle the subjectivity of qualitative data through the concept of indeterminacy, assigning specific values to uncertain relationships. This enables both static and dynamic analyses to use quantifiable metrics, ensuring that even subjective inputs are comparable in a more objective, data-driven framework. As a result, NCMs facilitate consistent decision-making, even when dealing with ambiguous or qualitative information. In the context of ports, globalization and technical improvements have had a considerable influence on port facility design and operation, as well as organizational and institutional connections among port community members [48; 49]. The economic structure and administration of ports are defined by the needs and technology of the port services provided. The pursuit of efficiency in marine transport demands systems that encourage internal competition in port services, leading to competition from other ports and port terminals. The concept of smart ports aims to integrate cutting-edge information technology and automated, intelligent equipment into daily port management. This automation helps streamline port production and operation, as well as the entire port logistics supply chain process. It  
Figure 9: Proposed methodology for smart port performance evaluation using NCMs. also facilitates port financial trade and streamlines port energy and emissions reduction efforts. Smart ports offer seamless connections and synergy between boats, ships, staff, cargo, and a port's systems, ultimately improving everyday operating performance and advantages. KPIs are becoming a primary port management tool used to monitor productivity and efficiency in contemporary port management and the shipping sector. KPIs allow port authorities to establish and assess their degree of growth in achieving business objectives. Setting goals is an important aspect of performance management. KPIs also evaluate a port's optimal allocation of resources by tracking and assessing all input/output parameters and operations, influencing the chance and rate at which a port will reach its objectives [50]. After reviewing related studies in the port and maritime industry, we identified six main areas that help measure smart port performance against specific goals and objectives: operational efficiency, financial performance, technological advancements, environmental sustainability, customer-centric, and safety and security. The identified dimensions can be defined as below:  
* **Operational efficiency**[51; 52; 53; 54; 55; 56; 57; 58]: Smart ports prioritize operational efficiency by aiming to optimize procedures, decrease costs, and increase productivity through leveraging digital technology and data-driven solutions. In fact, smart ports achieve operational efficiency by combining automation, digitalization, predictive analytics, real-time monitoring, and optimal supply chain integration. * **Financial**[54; 55; 56]: Financial performance metrics are crucial in determining the economic health, efficiency, and profitability of smart ports. These metrics provide information on income growth, expense management, and overall financial sustainability.