Comprising millions of vessels worldwide, the largest transport and trade infrastructure is the maritime industry.
Ancient in origin and existing now at the cutting edge of science and technology, the maritime industry faces a future of rapid change and innovation to meet some of humankind’s most pressing environmental and sustainability issues.
But how can ship management and vessel ownership feed into this need for better, more sustainable practices? How can advanced technologies have an impact on the safe and reliable management of ships across the world? Are there modern innovations in ship management practices that will create a more robust, resilient and continuous global supply network using sea transport?
In order to answer these questions and other vital queries around modern ship management solutions, it’s important to understand the nature of ship management and the companies that have grown to meet the needs of vessel owners and operators.
Table of Contents
What is Ship Management?
Essentially and in broad terms, the practice of ship management concerns the operation and and running of any sea-going vessel or ocean based fixed rig environment.
It is the process of maintaining and ensuring the safe, continual operation of vessels and rigs, the safety and security of seafarers operating and working in these complex and often harsh environments and the adherence to industry procedures and standards.
Ship management companies have emerged as an essential resource for many vessel owners, offering skilled, experienced personnel, clear protocols and procedures and ensuring ships are well maintained, appropriately stocked and voyage-ready.
Specialist services and repairs can be costly for ship owners, which is why having a ship management company onboard to oversee all aspects of a vessel’s working lifespan can be an excellent way to save money and ensure safety standards are met.
Ship management can include all the tasks and requirements of successfully operating and maintaining a vessel, and in recent years, ship management firms have registered an increase in demands for their expert services.
Ship management can include:
- Legal compliance with international and local policies and laws.
- Provision of fresh food and water needed as part of a voyage.
- Essential and regular repairs and maintenance.
- Adherence to safety guidelines and requirements.
- Better route planning.
- Security and emergency/disaster preparation.
- Identification of potential efficiencies including fuel economies.
- Implementation of more sustainable practices to mitigate environmental impacts.
- Pre-sale or purchase audits.
Understanding Advanced Technologies in Ship Management
Ship management companies are at the forefront of innovation across the maritime industry, exploring the potential in every aspect of seafaring. From finding better fuel efficiencies to implementing clearer planning strategies and developing groundbreaking, world leading software to monitor every part of conducting a successful, safe voyage.
A ship management firm tasked with overseeing a single or group of vessels, is the primary point of contact and will be responsible for every aspect of safe running, maintenance, staffing and supplies. Forward-thinking ship management companies have been looking at more sustainable practices and advanced solutions for many years, implementing new technology that tackles issues with everything from fuel consumption to safe water supplies.
One of the most interesting and exciting innovations has been in the area of ship management software, allowing the gathering and dissemination of live data before, during and after a voyage. Evaluation of this data can lead to better route strategies, optimised staffing, fuel and consumables planning. One example of exceptional ship management software is ShipSure, which facilitates data based analysis and provides interconnectivity throughout the supply chain, offering opportunities for improved decision making, better fuel economy and improved safety.
Alongside improved software for tracking and analysing data from voyages across many types of vessel are the technological advances and innovations in other areas of seafaring include:
Energy Efficiency and Sustainability – Widespread and growing concerns about climate change means the maritime industry has to respond proactively. Ship management companies are adopting energy-efficient technologies and more sustainable practices in order to reduce emissions and minimise carbon footprints. From fuel efficiency, reduced plastic consumption and better waste management to hull optimisation and regular maintenance to avoid negative environmental impacts, innovations are being applied across the board to improve performance and preserve the environment.
Automation and Increased Connectivity – Greater automation onboard and across the shore based aspects of the maritime supply chain, create greater opportunities for cost savings, streamlined processes and better use of finite resources and skilled labour. More devices and systems connected via the internet lead to a better understanding of time management within the supply chains interwoven throughout the maritime industry. A more thorough knowledge base leads to better planning, preparation and completion sector-wide.
Real Time Data Analysis – With improved access to better data gathering systems, software and analytical capabilities, ship management firms can plan ahead and make savings across the entire spectrum of maritime and vessel management. Technological innovations in software applications that allow for vast data gathering and dissemination mean that route planning, emergency responses, staffing, safety and consumables are all optimised.
Artificial Intelligence and Augmented Reality – Some of the maritime industry’s most exciting innovations are in the fields of AI and AR. From basic training, enhanced safety prep and emergency response planning, AI and AR allow crews and seafarers to prepare for the worst in a responsive and realistic environment. In addition to this, advanced robotics systems onboard and dockside are alleviating some of the most strenuous and dangerous work, freeing up staff to tackle more intricate and complex repairs and maintenance.
Final Thoughts
Looking forward to technological innovations in ship management that are potentially just over the horizon, the maritime industry must continue its world-leading advances in all aspects of seafaring and ocean transport.
Over 90% of the globe’s trade is conducted by sea at some point. For this reason alone, the industry must forge ahead with new and improved systems that streamline this most vital sector for the benefit of all.
Fully autonomous vessels, renewable energy sources, water filtration and saltwater treatment; the maritime industry is poised on the edge of inspirational and transformative change. But, where technological advances in ship management may improve safety and efficiency, it is important to remember that it is the experience of seafarers that guarantees the smooth sailing of ships across the world’s oceans.
