Work Package 4 as an integral part of PROPS Project aims to strengthen the internal management capacity and operational processes of SPCs for improving the promotion of short sea shipping and intermodality. To achieve this, a thorough analysis of SPC strategic positions and operations was performed. This D4.1 makes recommendations on a strategic and operational level for the SPC promotional role. All findings are based on evidence provided by SPC websites and SPC Directors. Piloting of core operational processes and indicators was undertaken by SPC Finland. Overall, PROPS findings aim to advise SPCs on how to improve their promotional role within the business network. To implement these recommendations further support could be provided by the PROPS Consortium to the SPCs. The planning for work on this Work Package began in September 2008; the actual work started in March 2009 and will continue until the end of the PROPS project in July 2011. During the final year WP4 will provide the final phase of the training programme.