2016 Nautical Systems User Conference Focused on Driving Greater Efficiency in the Industry

The ABS Nautical Systems Global User Conference wrapped up in Ft. Lauderdale on Thursday, September 15.  More than 100 attendee’s from around the world attended the 3–day event of best practices learning, sharing and collaboration.   

“Shaping an Efficient Future Together” was the conference theme, and Howard Fireman, president of Nautical Systems and CTO at ABS, kicked things off with a look at how technology at ABS is shaping the future of class and driving greater efficiency in the industry.  Mr. Fireman discussed the role new inspection technologies are playing, the data centric future of the maritime industry, the demands cyber security is placing on owners and operators and how ABS is meeting these challenges.  Fireman stressed that “software and visualization tools are essential in helping clients minimize downtime, avoid unexpected costs and provide data necessary to make operational decisions.  Nautical Systems provides our clients with the solutions necessary to ensure the health, safety and efficient operation of these newer, smarter assets.”

Stephen Schwarz, Nautical Systems vice president and COO, provided attendees with a look at the many significant accomplishments achieved in 2016, the NS 2020 vision and the new tools available to support a more efficient future.  Schwarz reviewed the substantial investment that has been made in structuring an organization that develops and delivers more sophisticated software products with excellent customer service. “We are committed to investing in development resources to ensure our products continue to meet the demands of our customers and the evolving marketplace.  This year we demonstrated that commitment with several new products. Our clients were impressed with what they saw,” said Schwarz.

New products reviewed included:

·         NS Vessel Performance

·         Crew Scheduler

·         New On-Demand Reporting and BI tools

·         NS Mobile App

John Hathaway, Nautical Systems director, product management, and his team gave clients a look at the Product Roadmap and launched “Open Innovation” sessions at this year’s conference.  These collaborative sessions provided NS clients with the opportunity to directly impact the future development of the software.  First-time attendee Lee Gearing with Crowley Maritime said, “Being able to add input and ideas and learn that the fixes and or suggestions might be implemented bring positive outlook to the overall use of the program.  I am excited for the changes and getting more use out of NS.” 

As always, a hands-on demo room was available each day to offer clients a deeper look at new and existing products. The last day of the conference focused on training for efficiency. Furthermore, clients and the Nautical Systems team also enjoyed evening events where they had the opportunity to network with peers, socialize and benefit from other perspectives.

The location of the 2017 NS User Conference was announced and the NS team is looking forward to collaborating again at the Wyndham San Diego Bayside, September 12 – 14, 2017.