Posted on October 26, 2022 at 3:36 p.m. by
The Maritime Executive
[By: Marlink]
Ship management leader signs new contract to ensure access to a unified global IT infrastructure with intelligent data routing
Oslo and Paris, October 26, 2022. Marlink, the smart grid solutions company, has signed a new agreement with Odfjell Management AS, providing seamless access to global corporate and crew applications across 52 vessels.
The contract includes 43 vessels managed by Odfjell Management Norway and nine others operated by Thome Management Singapore. Marlink will deploy its hybrid connectivity solution across the fleet, including high-speed VSAT, L-Band and 4G services using software-defined routing (SD-WAN) for seamless and intelligent data flow through Marlink’s on-board XChange router .
The fleet uses standard IT tools including Microsoft Office 365 in its daily operations with MS-Teams used for meetings and document sharing. Odfjell will also take advantage of the growing availability of 4G coverage from shore and will use Marlink’s global 4G service for business connectivity when within range, benefiting from low latency and high speeds.
Odfjell’s decision to select Marlink was driven by the company’s digitization strategy, which involved moving IT services to the cloud, with the philosophy that all ships should have tools and services similar to its land-based offices.
This hybrid approach is enabled by Marlink’s SD-WAN solution, which assigns key applications to different connectivity links, allowing software to be configured and delivered “as a service” rather than as installed programs. performance and connectivity issues.
Odfjell Ship Management provides an integrated solution that promotes safe, reliable and efficient operations, including crewing, quality, health, safety, security and environment (QHSSE) management, technological support and digital innovation, new construction, energy efficiency solutions and global fleet management. Its vessels must comply not only with international regulations, but also with industry environmental management systems such as Tanker Management Self-Assessment.
“Odfjell is constantly looking for new ways to use technology to develop digital solutions that fuel growth and value creation, while reducing costs and increasing operational efficiency and safety,” says Gunnar Eide, Head of digital applications at Odfjell. “Marlink’s smart hybrid connectivity approach gives us better access and response from fleet ERP systems. This will greatly improve communication between ship and shore, provide additional efficiency during port rotations and increase the opportunities for the crew to stay in touch with family and friends back home.
“Shipowners, operators and managers are changing the conversation around what a technology partner like Marlink can do for them that supports their business and meets long-term customer needs,” said Tore Morten Olsen, president, Maritime, Marlink. “By combining the best connectivity choices with new software tools, we can help them achieve their travel efficiency goals, stay compliant, and retain the best people to support their mission.”
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