Maritime digital innovation analyzed through mixed method approaches: exploring the sequential design in seaport research

Abstract

This research addresses the knowledge gap in seaport studies by investigating the use of digital mixed-methods approaches. The study employs bibliometric analysis to identify trends and research gaps in maritime digital innovation, and an exploratory sequential design to explore the potential of digital innovation in seaport research. Results reveal a lack of mixed-methods approaches in this field, with quantitative methods being dominant. Only three papers from 2011 to 2022 utilized mixed methods in seaport research. Additionally, there is limited popularity of qualitative and mixed-methods research in regional growth studies. The findings highlight the need to adapt digital innovation in mixed-methods research while preserving human interaction for comprehensive outcomes.