The programming committee for the 79th Annual SAM International Business Conference is pleased to announce the acceptance of the presentation, Analyzing Port Productivity Attribute: Using Deep Learning Textual Analysis by Maryam Mahdikhani.

We are thrilled to announce the presentation of a groundbreaking study at the upcoming SAM International Business Conference, a pivotal gathering of scholars and industry experts in the field of international business. This research, a meticulous examination of port productivity articles spanning from 2018 to 2023, employs an advanced deep learning topic-modeling technique to distill prevalent themes from a rich collection of both academic and news sources. The study marks a significant leap in our understanding of the global port industry, especially through the lens of the unprecedented challenges and transformations induced by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The researchers embarked on this journey with a clear objective: to unravel the intricate narrative surrounding port productivity in a world grappling with the ramifications of a global health crisis. Their analysis sheds light on the dynamic shifts within the port industry, capturing the essence of its evolution during the various phases of the pandemic and the subsequent period of recovery and adaptation. The results of this comprehensive study reveal a fascinating story of resilience, innovation, and strategic recalibration within the global port sector.

One of the most compelling findings is the evident shift in the narrative around port productivity in the post-COVID-19 era. Despite facing unprecedented challenges, the pandemic has acted as a powerful catalyst for change, spurring innovation and prompting stakeholders to reassess their priorities. This transformation is not just a testament to the industry’s ability to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity but also highlights the critical role of innovation in driving forward-looking strategies in port management and international trade.

The insights gleaned from this study are invaluable for anyone involved in the global port industry or interested in the broader implications of the pandemic on international trade. As the world continues to navigate the complexities of recovery and seeks to build more resilient and efficient trade networks, the findings of this research offer a beacon of understanding, guiding stakeholders through the evolving landscape of port productivity and management.

The SAM International Business Conference is the perfect platform for presenting these vital insights, facilitating a rich dialogue among academics, industry practitioners, and policymakers. This study not only contributes to the academic discourse on port productivity and resilience in the face of global disruptions but also offers practical guidance for navigating the post-pandemic world. We look forward to the vibrant discussions and innovative ideas that this presentation will undoubtedly inspire at the conference, setting the stage for a more robust and dynamic future for the global port industry.

Join us online or in person at SAMIBC 2024 and see this great presentation and many more March 19 – March 23, 2024. For registration information visit www.samnational.org/conference.