## 1 Introduction  
### Background  
As the digital paradigm causes turbulence in all areas, maritime ports, considered pillars of logistics and the global supply chain, are also embarking on a data-driven revolution. About 90% of worldwide trade is transported by sea (maritime trade), so the efficiency of these nodal points is not only desirable but essential [1]. Digitalization is redefining this scenario with the promise of unprecedented efficiency, productivity, sustainability, and transparency of business processes [2; 3; 4; 5; 6]. With this new digital paradigm comes the concept of the smart port with the \"emergence\" of Industry 4.0 in 2011. It represents the adoption of advanced technologies to achieve benefits, in this context, managing and improving the flow of cargo, with an impact on optimizing the supply chain [7; 8]. Smart ports are a natural extension of smart cities, as both leverage digital technologies to enhance operations and promote sustainability. Similar to the way in which smart cities utilize data to create more efficient urban environments, smart ports apply these principles to optimize maritime logistics and port management. This integration plays a crucial role in minimizing environmental impacts and fostering economic development in the urban areas where ports operate, thereby enhancing the overall competitiveness and quality of life in these regions [9; 10]. The smart port thus aims to maintain market competitiveness by proactively adapting and responding to the demands of world trade, which have seen an increase [8]. This sharp increase is described by [PERSON] et al. [11] in their study, in which they mention that, since 2006, the growth in container ship capacity has been a defining feature of the industry, reflecting in an overall increase in the number of containers in circulation to accommodate the ever-expanding world trade. Also, to confirm this statement, according to [PERSON] & [PERSON] [1], \"Maritime transport is one of the cheapest types of transport, so international maritime trade has increased\". In maritime logistics, particularly in smart ports, smart gates, which link port operations and external traffic, are leading a major change to improve efficiency and safety. These essential gates use advanced technology to enhance port entry and exit, improve security, and increase performance [12; 13; 14]. According to [PERSON] et al. [15], stakeholders tend to operate independently in digital innovation in seaports, which can result in a lack of synchronization and shared goals. Similarly, stakeholders may be hesitant to disclose information or modify their processes, which is essential for the effective integration of digital technologies [16; 17]. The digitalization of port operations represents a crucial step towards operational excellence, with a focus on solving communication and information problems [18; 19]. Existing communication barriers can generate operational inefficiencies that translate into lower productivity and profitability of operations [3; 20]. At the same time, the information gap for decision-making, evidenced by the difficulty in accessing critical information in real-time, can be filled by the introduction of information systems. Thus, the information system is expected to facilitate the exchange of information between the different stakeholders, ensuring that decisions are supported by data collected in real-time to improve coordination and, consequently, the efficiency of port operations as a whole [21; 22]. So, for [PERSON] & [PERSON] [23], achieving the ideal harmony between individuals, procedures, and technology has always been essential to the success of any change and the heart of achieving business competitiveness. To effectively harness the potential of digitalization, it is essential to establish clear and transparent processes that can mitigate risks, meet market demands, and avoid bottlenecks and inefficiencies [3; 24; 25].