Information technology in the maritime industry past, present and future: Focus on LNG carriers

Abstract

The maritime industry represents one of the oldest industries known to man. From time immemorial human beings have been navigating the water ways as a transport medium for trade, leisure, basic transport and a myriad of other things including war between nations over territorial rights. The water ways also present dynamics in international relations as well with countries vying for the control of water locked mineral resources. The interest of nations in who controls the water ways and the resources therein also play a critical role in conflict and high politics amongst nations [1]. The impact of Information Technology on organisations that provide services to the mari-Time sector is also brought under review with the aim of identifying the criticality of IT as a strategic business tool in positioning the organization for growth in the chosen market place, achieving reduction in the cost of doing business as well as criticality for survival as an organization is taken into consideration. Literature review and information gathering constitute the bulk of data for this research. Surveys were used to collate responses from industry practitioners. The responses were analysed and relevant details ascertained. The results of the survey and studies conducted clearly established the fact that Information Technology infrastructure is critical to the sustenance of the LNG shipping industry. Ensuring retention of seafarers who are key human resources to an shipping organization is seen to heavily depend on the provision of reliable IT infrastructure.