Standardization across maritime IT systems ‘essential’ for future of industry

Ensuring that standardization and interoperability across maritime IT systems is firmly encased in regulations is crucial to becoming a safer and more unified industry, says SmartSea.

The maritime industry has long been labeled as fragmented with multiple uncoordinated IT systems and no proper support or guidance from regulatory bodies to ensure a solid IT infrastructure that is interpretational across the industry.

SmartSea, powered by SITA, the global leader in technology solutions for the air transport industry, is leading the way in lobbying for change and a more standardised approach to IT systems to bring maritime in line with aviation.

Director, Technology Sales Simon Fotakis, at SmartSea said: “Maritime is really missing direction from regulatory bodies. I would like to see them defining and mandating uniform data formats, communication protocols, and interoperability requirements for systems used in safety, navigation, and emergency response. Some of these requirements should be baked in regulations so that they are strictly adhered to. They can also endorse systems through certification to ensure compliance.”

Working within a fragmented IT infrastructure can have a significant impact on crew safety and can lead to delayed decision-making, poor situational awareness, and inefficient coordination during a crisis at sea, says Smart Sea.

Mr Fotakis added: “Delayed or misinterpreted information during a maritime emergency can severely compromise crew safety and response times. When critical data is not received or understood promptly, crews may hesitate, act on wrong assumptions, or miss the window for effective containment.

“This confusion can escalate minor issues into life-threatening situations, delay coordination with shore teams or rescue services, and reduce overall situational awareness. In high-stress environments, even small delays or miscommunications can mean the difference between control and catastrophe. With a shared situational picture, decisions can be made more confidently and actions prioritised effectively, ultimately enhancing safety and minimizing the impact of the emergency.”

Varying IT standards can also impact efficient coordination between different ships, ports, and authorities., leading to slow data exchange and miscommunication during emergencies or routine operations.

“This fragmentation hinders real-time coordination, delays decision-making creates logistics inefficiencies, and forces crews to adapt to different systems with each voyage. This is in stark contrast to aviation, which operates on globally standardized systems, enabling seamless communication and coordination across aircraft, airports, and control centers,” said Mr Fotakis.

Drawing on SITA’s experience in the aviation industry, SmartSea is working to create a ‘single maritime voice’ with a standardized, integrated, and interoperable approach to maritime IT systems across ships, ports and authorities.