Port community systems (PCS), as platforms for connecting the actors of a port community, build a basis for improving information exchange. These systems support automation and visibility, thereby helping to enhance the overall port community performance. However, for a successful development of a PCS, it is necessary to use an appropriate design methodology. In the literature, it is common to find different methodologies for the design of electronic tools. However, this is not the case for products and services related to port communities. Therefore, this study analyzes and identifies a suitable design methodology for PCS, supported by a case study in Barranquilla, Colombia. One of the main findings is that the context, the geographical environment, the technological development and the cultural factor were key factors for the development and implementation of PCS. Taking the above into account, we propose in this research a new methodology for the design of PCS.