Digital workloads at sea are increasing, highlighting the urgent need for integrated systems, as noted by Raal Harris, vice president of InterManager. While members of InterManager support data-driven operations, they are increasingly aware of the challenges digitalization poses for seafarers. Although crews appreciate effective technology, they are frustrated by the proliferation of standalone platforms that complicate their already demanding tasks.
The recent Splash Seafarers magazine reflects ongoing concerns from crews about the influx of new applications, which often serve specific equipment, customer needs, or regulatory requirements. Each application introduces its own login and workflow, creating a cumbersome patchwork that leads to unnecessary duplication and inefficiencies. Shore-based ship managers face similar issues, with diverse fleets and varying commercial arrangements resulting in inconsistent data from systems that were not designed to interconnect.
Despite significant investments in digital capabilities, ship managers struggle with the fragmented nature of these systems. Close collaboration with technology providers is essential to ensure that tools are developed with real-world applications in mind. As environmental regulations and reporting demands grow, the need for a coherent digital infrastructure becomes even more critical. Effective digitalization should prioritize user-friendly tools that streamline operations rather than complicate them, ultimately supporting safer and more efficient maritime practices.
