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Digitalization for small and medium-sized shipping companies

What does digital transformation mean for small and medium-sized shipping companies?

What are small and medium-sized shipping companies talking about right now? According to Oskar Schager, Key Account Manager at Soya IT Marine Solutions, one topic stands out: the opportunities and challenges of digitalization.

Shipping has undergone dramatic changes in recent years. From traditional methods to leveraging data and connected systems – digitalization is opening new doors to reduce fuel costs, streamline operations, and improve both communication and crew well-being.

– I am currently in conversations with many shipping companies that find themselves at a crossroads when it comes to modernizing their platforms. The question of how much to invest and at what pace is a topic of great interest to many, says Oskar Schager, Key Account Manager at Soya IT Marine Solutions

A modern and secure IT platform creates several opportunities, such as reducing fuel costs, improving onboard communication, and opening up for future investments. Here are some ways digitalization can help small and medium-sized shipping companies:

More efficient operations
By using digital tools like fleet management systems and real-time monitoring, shipping companies can optimize their routes, lower fuel costs, and gain better control over vessel availability.

Data-driven decisions
A modern IT platform makes it easier to analyze data and receive advice on how to improve performance, identify bottlenecks, and plan for future investments.

Better communication
Modern digital solutions make it easier to stay in touch between the crew, office, and customers. This facilitates faster decisions and better customer service.

Crew well-being
With Starlink, which started offering internet access to shipping in 2022, the crew can access fast internet – up to 350 Mbit/s – even on international waters. This means they can stay in touch with family and access entertainment, which improves their well-being onboard.

Are there any challenges?

– For small and medium-sized shipping companies who lack their own IT departments, rapid digitalization can feel overwhelming” continues Oskar. Some common challenges that we often encounter include: 

Cybersecurity
With more digital systems, there is also a greater risk of cyberattacks. Protecting both IT systems and vessels from breaches is crucial. This can feel complex and challenging.

Cost and expertise
Implementing new digital solutions can be expensive, and it can be difficult to find and retain staff with the right technical expertise.

Adaptation and integration
For older vessels and systems, it can be challenging to get new technology to work together, creating both complexity and extra costs.

How can Soya IT Marine Solutions help?

For us, it is always crucial to start from each customer’s unique needs and the specific conditions of their business. Our recommendations are based on finding a solution that not only meets their current needs but is also tailored to the pace of development and future challenges their business may face. In this way, we ensure that our customers receive a solution that is both sustainable and strategically aligned with their goals. We offer tailored solutions to help you:

  • Implement cost-effective and flexible digital systems.
  • Protect your business with reliable cybersecurity solutions
  • Maximize efficiency with integrated IT solutions.
  • Invest in the future in a cost-effective way with our subscription-based pricing model.

Don’t hesitate to contact us if you want to know more about how we can help your shipping company navigate the digital world.

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