A GROUND-breaking app and portal developed by a Scottish firm could revolutionise the way marine operators around the world can better manage crewing data and improve communication and engagement with staff.
Ankaa Ltd, a joint venture between Glasgow-based Clyde Marine Recruitment and data software specialist Bala Narayanan have invested more than £500,000 in the initiative called Ankaa Marine.
It is a simple, cloud-based platform that greatly reduces administration for seafaring businesses, helps streamline operations and improves compliance significantly.
Ankaa Marine, which is also GDPR compliant, is the only product of its type accessible to operators of all sizes.
It offers real-time visibility of crew personal data, certification validity and copy documentation that has never previously been available, with a user-friendly interface and crew access on mobiles and through the portal.
It encourages crew engagement through mobile phones, allowing easier communication. Companies can also circulate safety bulletins or process changes in a secure company-branded space.
The launch of Ankaa Marine follows years of product development and successful seafarer trials, which helped fine tune its functionality, user interface and stability.
Ankaa Marine has already snapped up two high-profile customers: Serco Northlink Ferries, which runs ferry services to Orkney and Shetland and has around 370 marine staff; and MBSS, an Indonesian provider of sea logistics with more than 1200 seafarers.
Stuart Garrett, Serco’s managing director for Northlink Ferries, said: “This is a proven solution to something that affects every maritime operator and we’re proud to be in at the start of a transformation in crew management.”
Ankaa managing director, Ian Livingstone, said: “Ankaa Marine isn’t just an app for the marine industry, it can also be used in a variety of other sectors, from renewables to construction, aviation and oil and gas, where large data files need to be shared securely and vocational qualifications constantly refreshed.”
Seafarer Joe Perkins, who is among those who have used it, said: “You can’t go wrong with it.”
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