A structured maturity model for evaluating smart logistics parks transformation: Case study in western China
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Abstract
The transformation of traditional into smart logistics parks (SLPs) requires a structured framework for assessing maturity and guiding development. Existing maturity models, often adapted from smart city or industrial park frameworks, lack specificity and empirical validation for the logistics park context. To address this gap, this study constructs and validates a data-driven maturity model for SLPs by integrating a literature review, expert consultation, and case studies of two logistics parks in western China. The model comprises five dimensions—Smart Economy, Public Services and Smart Governance, Infrastructure and Intelligent Technology Application, Skilled Human Capital, and Environmental Sustainability—and defines 20 measurable factors. These factors are evaluated through a four-level maturity framework progressing from Initial to Optimization stages, corresponding to the conventional levels of Initial, Defined, Managed, and Leading. The application revealed that both parks were positioned between the Initial and Growth stages. Logistics Park 2 excelled in digital infrastructure and technology adoption, as well as workforce digital literacy, whereas Logistics Park 1 enjoyed advantages in operational ROI and stakeholder integration. While for both parks, Public Services and Smart Governance reached the Growth stage, Smart Economy and Environmental Sustainability lagged, reflecting reliance on volume-based growth and underdeveloped sustainability outcomes. The model differentiated between transitional and emerging SLPs, proving its value as a diagnostic and strategic tool. One limitation, however, is the model's initial validation within the two case studies in western China, and future research should expand the application to diverse contexts to enhance generalizability and robustness.
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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.
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