## 5 Discussion  
In the context of optimizing port terminals, smart gates have emerged as a crucial part, as identified by [PERSON] et al. (2014). These technologies not only modernize access to the terminal through automation but are also fundamental in improving the efficiency and safety of port processes, as these areas are considered international by [PERSON] et al. (2018). The implementation of smart gates makes it possible to significantly reduce waiting times by \begin{table}
\begin{tabular}{p{113.8 pt} p{113.8 pt} p{113.8 pt} p{113.8 pt}} \hline \hline
**Aspect** & **AS-IS State** & **TO-BE State** & **Benefits of the TO-BE State** \\ \hline
**Entry process with scheduling** & Manual verification of documents and information by gate operators. Limited system integration causing delays and errors. & Automated verification using OCR and integration between systems (TOS, GAS, AGS). & Reduces manual labour, decreases delays, minimizes human error, and improves overall efficiency and accuracy in data handling. \\ \hline
**Entry process without scheduling** & Manual process for access validation, prolonged verification time, and dependence on access cards or signals. & Drivers are directed to a specific location that does not interfere with the entry flow. This measure aims to make the process without an appointment more complex, advantages of making an appointment in advance and indirectly encouraging drivers to adhere to the appointment. \\ \hline
**Exit process** & Manual data entry and verification by exit operators; prone to errors and causes queues and delays. & Automated data capture and verification with minimal manual intervention. & Streamlines exit process, reduces errors, and decreases the time needed for trucks to exit, enhancing throughput and efficiency. \\ \hline
**System integration** & Lack of integration between critical systems leading to inconsistencies and delays. & Full integration between all relevant systems (TOS, GAS, AGS) for seamless data flow. & Ensures consistent and reliable data across systems, reducing delays and improving decision-making and operational flow. \\ \hline
**Security and verification** & Reliance on manual checks and signals, which are time-consuming and prone to errors. & Enhanced security with multiple automated checkpoints for driver, vehicle, and cargo validation. & Improves security and reduces unauthorized access, minimizes manual intervention, and speeds up the verification process. \\ \hline
**Data handling and accuracy** & High potential for errors due to manual data entry and lack of real-time data integration. & Real-time data capture and automated processing with integrated systems. & Increases data accuracy, reduces errors, and provides real-time insights for better operational management and decision-making. \\ \hline
**Operational efficiency** & Inefficient processes with significant delays and manual interventions leading to lower productivity. & Streamlined processes with automation at every checkpoint, reducing delays and manual interventions. & Enhances overall terminal efficiency, reduces operational costs, and increases throughput capacity and customer satisfaction. \\ \hline \hline \end{tabular}
\end{table} 
Table 5: Comparison between the AS-IS and TO-BE states of the terminal processes. contributing to the uninterrupted flow of cargo and vehicles, as well as making information available in real-time for better decision-making. Although the initial investment in such technologies can be considerable, the long-term benefits will justify this adoption through improved productivity rates and customer satisfaction in terminals, as highlighted by the literature [20]. Our study's findings on the implementation and impact of smart gates are closely aligned with existing research highlighting the benefits of digital transformation in port operations.