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Shipping if a reading is false . A unified perspective can transform onboard understanding of evolving risks . Improved systems can also reduce administrative burdens , such as automated digital permit-to-work systems , allowing senior crew members to focus more on sailing and hazard avoidance . This not only improves efficiency but also significantly boosts morale - a growing concern on board many vessels .
While data costs remain a challenge , the cost of high-speed internet at sea is prohibitive and many ship owners cannot justify investing in highly connected vessels equipped with sensors . In this context , hardware free voyage optimization systems can also provide a solution by delivering fleet monitoring , regulatory compliance , performance analytics and voyage optimization in a single view . Even without dedicated hardware , both onboard crew and onshore teams can gain the necessary insight to enhance safety and security .
Conclusion
Regardless of whether the next crisis for ship owners stems from war , severe weather or another global health emergency , one incontrovertible challenge remains : recruiting onboard crew is becoming increasingly difficult . The extended durations at sea , combined with limited shore leave , significantly impact crew morale . This profession is uniquely demanding , often oscillating between mundane and high-risk situations , with daily challenges ranging from illness and fires , groundings , or emergency responses .
To address these issues , ship owners and masters must leverage digitization and information systems to enhance decision making and responsiveness . However , achieving this requires a concentrated focus on crew safety and morale to cultivate trust in these technologies . When crew members understand that data has the
potential to improve their day-to-day working experience - through effective preventative maintenance , better weather forecasting , and the automation of administrative tasks - their engagement and trust will naturally increase .
Reducing stress and bolstering morale are critical to improving crew performance . When morale is high , vessels operate more efficiently , and cargo is delivered on time and safely . Therefore , the use of data is imperative not only for safeguarding shipping operations but also for fostering a supportive and satisfying work environment for seafarers . By equipping crews with the information they need to handle challenges effectively , the maritime industry can ensure readiness and resilience in the face of the next crisis . ■
For a list of the sources used in this article , please contact the editor .
▼ Captain Steve Bomgardner , Vice President Shipping & Offshore , Pole Star Global
www . polestarglobal . com
Pole Star Global develops pioneering maritime intelligence technologies to protect its customers ’ vessels , people , reputation , and financial investments . Its solutions enable time-critical decisions and mitigate risk across all facets of maritime activity - from cross-border trade to sustainability risk , the monitoring of territorial waters , and everything in between .
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