Page 19: of Maritime Logistics Professional Magazine (Q4 2011)

www.maritimeprofessional.com Maritime Professional 19 the C-Suite the ability to more efficient- ly monitor and manage the growing mounds of data.Breaking Down Barriers A key challenge for any software provider in the maritime space is simplygaining acceptance from the ship andboat owners that a software solution is indeed a more efficient and effective way to run their fleets; their business. The marine industry, particularly in the mid- and small-company sectors, tend to rely on accrued knowledge and expe- rience of its long-tenured captain andcrew. But, taking one example, with new medical regulations working to effectively thin the ranks of experienced boat operators more quickly than ever before, most every maritime operator faces the challenge of an aging work- force and a dwindling number of youngtalent in the pipeline. Modern, proven software solutions can go a long way in making the job of owning and operating vessels more efficient, safe and cost- effective. ?People in this industry are tradition-ally conservative when it comes to accepting new technology and sharing their operational information,? Hughey said. ?That?s not meant as a negative, it is just how it is. What we?re trying to do with our software solutions is lay a foundation that will enable customers toattain operational, safety and technicalexcellence across their organizations, as well as improve the process of survey planning and preparation for ABS- classed vessels, with a company they know and trust.? ?For example, if they (the owner/operator) already have an inspec- tion/integrity management program in place, they are already capturing the information.? Essentially the ABS NS system, if fully employed is designed to capture and manage that information ina more intuitive and efficient manner. While Hughey agrees that the mar- itime industry presents a longer sellingMP #4 (18-33):MP Layouts 11/7/2011 3:13 PM Page 19