Describes the background to and the aims, development, production, and testing of the Improving Port Performance project initiated by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development to provide training for port managers in developing countries. The content and approach of the first set of materials produced are outlined. (MBR)

An examination of the origin and content of general systems theory is followed by identification of the major characteristics of systems and brief discussion of use of models. Two ways of applying a systems model are identified and their appropriateness is assessed in relation to particular training circumstances. (55 references). (Author/MBR)