5 check points that Fleet Process.PMS system is effective

Whether you are using a computerized system or just going to look at the market, you are likely to come across a number of issues, some of which we will discuss below:

1.      Simplicity and effectiveness

Everything was clear for you in your paper forms, but after it was transferred to the new electronic format all mixed up. Periodicity of work seems to be calculated correctly, but not the service time of components’ parts and condition-based works – this can cause a complete mess. Reports on works done may not contain the information that you used to see and you have a dilemma - whether to refer back to the developer for reconfiguration of the reporting forms or drop it.

You need to be able to use your usual forms (e.g. in Excel or Word) and store photos and e-mails as well. Make use of the system to do what it can do better than a human being - for example, calculation of periods of work or budget cost per period without having to sacrifice neither familiarity nor comfort.

2.       Database

Sometimes you have to wait all day until the data received from a ship is processed and becomes available in the office database. There is an even longer wait if the information entered aboard the ship has to be transmitted ashore for processing and only after the update has been received from the shore does it become accessible on the ship.

Fast and efficient data exchange should be one of the key factors regardless of the method of data transfer. There should also be a possibility of fully autonomous operation, when synchronization is provided over an extended period of time. Access to the database from anywhere in the world is also a key factor for superintendents who spend a lot of time travelling.

Do not forget about the important stage of creating and populating the database. Even if you invite a specialist to set up the database, a need for its alteration will still persist throughout the life of the ship. The system must have convenient tools for quick and efficient entry of works, instructions and other information both ashore and on board.

3.       Installation

Sometimes, you need to wait for a specialist to visit and this may take weeks or even months. You searched for facilitating your work but got a new batch of problems. The need to enter the license keys or download the license files greatly complicates the process of activation of the software, and also requires a concern for their security.

Modern software must be so easy to install that common users could have selected to install it in the office and on the ship, and they could even set up the connection to the local network and the Internet without wasting time on licenses issues at all.

4.       User training

Training is necessary to use the systems which are too complex and are positioned as a unique solution to all problems, i.e. you only need to learn how it works. Such systems are usually equipped with their own documents’ format and specific forms and have their own operation logic. Even if you are willing to pay for courses for your seamen on how to use the program, usually you do not have time to train them, because nowadays the crew recruitment is a very dynamic process.

But nowadays, who attends computer courses? – no-one. And yet everybody is able to use a standard software set. The system should be designed to be very easy for users to assist you and not complicate your business.

5.       Cost

The price will certainly be an important factor when choosing a software product and may include not only the purchase of the product itself, but also the installation and configuration. Now add the additional cost of the specialist’s travel to the direct cost of the software and multiply it by the number of ships. It turns out to be a very high price. And once you have paid, what if the ship is sold or is handed over to new management? You may be able to transfer the license to another ship, but if not you will have to buy a new one for new ships.

A good solution can be software rental without having to buy it at all. Why own something which requires support and is subject to a maintenance fee anyway? Should the ship be handed over to new management or sold, then you could stop the rent, take another ship and rent a new PMS system.

Maritime Business Service offers new, modern alternative Fleet Process PMS that will change your common work and gives you new solutions of complete overview of ship condition, repair expances and maintenance schedule.

Please contact our support department and try Fleet Process.PMS 90 day for free.

Support department: [email protected] | [email protected]

Maritime Business Service Ltd.

www.fleetprocess.com