Understanding the effects of resolving nautical bottlenecks on the Danube: a KPI-based conceptual framework

Abstract

Background Shifting cargo from roads to eco-friendly inland waterway transport (IWT) is an important step towards reaching the decarbonization goals defined by the European Green Deal. The rehabilitation of nautical bottlenecks is essential to reach the fairway depth which is needed to allow a competitive transport on inland waterways. Aim The goal of this paper is to (1) identify key performance indicators (KPI) associated with nautical bottlenecks caused by insufficient maintenance, (2) understand the effects of resolving nautical bottlenecks on the identified KPIs and (3) develop a conceptual framework. Methods To develop the conceptual framework, we carried out a systematic literature review. We analysed the identified literature using qualitative content analysis and thus, derived relevant KPIs and their interdependencies. Findings Ten KPIs were identified, which could be clustered as being either IWT-related, market-related or location-related. One example for an IWT-related KPI is the vessel draft, while market-related KPIs are e.g., referring to the KPI modal share and location-related KPIs to other KPIs such as fairway depth. Contribution The conceptual framework visualizes the interdependencies between the KPIs and facilitates further research in this field, i.e., the development of a method for the evaluation of economic benefits of resolving nautical bottlenecks on inland waterways. A scientific method that allows the economic evaluation of resolving nautical bottlenecks it is essential to demonstrates the gain in quantitative net benefit if water levels are sufficient. A quantification of the net benefit serves as a motivator to intensify maintenance work on nautical bottlenecks and to facilitate decision-making regarding infrastructure projects.

Validation of a Key Performance Indicator Framework Demonstrating Economic Benefits Gained through Resolving Nautical Bottlenecks on Selected Sections of the Danube

“…This article intends to verify the applicability of a literature-derived KPI framework developed by Duldner-Borca et al in 2023 [17] for determined the economic benefits of resolving nautical bottlenecks on inland water routes, i.e., on the Danube. This validation was achieved through 11 comprehensive qualitative expert interviews.…”

“…Duldner-Borca et al [17] developed a KPI framework based on a systematic literature review which supports the understanding of the interconnections between key measures to describe the economic effects of resolving nautical bottlenecks. The basis of this KPI framework lies in nine KPIs that were discovered through the systematic literature research process.…”

“…The KPIs identified through the literature research of Duldner-Borca et al [17] are therefore correct according to the experts interviewed, and the correlations between the different KPIs match. In addition, two relevant KPIs were added-maintenance costs and the KPI delivery service level.…”

“…This article aims to validate a literature-based framework [17] for understanding the economic effects of resolving nautical bottlenecks on inland waterways by means of in-depth qualitative expert interviews. Furthermore, the individual KPIs will be ranked according to their importance as a method of evaluating the economic benefits of resolving nautical bottlenecks.…”