Marine ERP: Driving transparency and sustainability in the maritime industry
The maritime industry is undergoing a transformation ...
A transformation driven by technological advancements and a shift toward sustainability. With increasing environmental concerns and regulatory pressures, shipping companies must adapt to survive in a more transparent and data-driven world.
As Shipnet's CEO aptly noted:
“The next wave of change isn’t about hardware or software—it’s about something far more fundamental: transparency.”
The End of Secrecy in Shipping
For decades, the shipping industry has operated under a veil of secrecy. Key data, such as vessel emissions, fuel consumption, and environmental impact, remained hidden. However, this is rapidly changing. The demand for accountability is now coming from all directions—regulators like the IMO, investors focused on ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) criteria, and customers seeking cleaner supply chains. In response, the industry is moving toward greater transparency and investing in cleaner technologies and more efficient operational strategies, including slow steaming and just-in-time port arrivals.
The Role of Marine SaaS and ERP Solutions
With the push for stricter emissions reporting, marine SaaS solutions like maritime ERP software and fleet management tools are becoming indispensable. These digital platforms allow shipowners and operators to capture, analyse, and report environmental data with unprecedented precision. Marine commercial software integrating these capabilities enables companies to not only comply with regulations but also gain a competitive edge by leading the way a sustainable future.
Shipnet’s Helix Platform - The data for decision-making
A clear example of this digital transformation is the growing adoption of solutions like Shipnet’s Helix. This platform empowers shipowners to create a comprehensive digital representation of their operations by integrating data from multiple sources. Helix drives efficiency improvements and supports better decision-making, from emissions tracking to safety records. Platforms like these offer a new level of visibility, helping businesses uncover hidden insights within their fleets.
Overcoming Challenges in the Path to Transparency
Despite the benefits, the journey toward transparency and sustainability is fraught with challenges. Legacy IT systems, concerns over competitive advantage, and an entrenched culture of secrecy remain significant hurdles. Nevertheless, forward-thinking shipowners recognise that the rewards outweigh the risks. Transparent practices build trust with stakeholders and counter the growing issue of greenwashing. As verifiable data becomes the norm, companies that back their sustainability claims with solid evidence, will be well-positioned to lead the market.
The Future of Shipping: Embrace transparency, don’t fear it
The future of shipping depends on embracing this new era of transparency. By leveraging advanced technologies and fostering a more open culture, shipowners can meet regulatory demands and market expectations. This shift not only positions them as leaders in sustainability but also contributes to a cleaner, more accountable supply chain for all stakeholders—from operators to end consumers.
John Wills
Director, Customer Experience
Get in touch to find out more about Helix