Modern shipping is primarily dominated by bulk shipping and container shipping. There are more of these ship types than any other types in the industry - both in terms of the number of vessels and deadweight carried across the ocean. While transporting bulk homogenous cargo appears quite straightforward, container shipping is about carrying smaller parcels that will fit in a standard ISO container. Robust infrastructure has been built to transport bulk and container cargo wit

(Photo by Ibrahim Boran on Unsplash) In recent decades, every industry has tested different strategies and technologies to maximize operational efficiency. Mechanical and software-based solutions have pushed the boundaries of human possibility by making equipment, machinery, and engines not only tremendously efficient but also extremely safe. The arrival of machine learning and artificial intelligence has taken efficiency to a whole new level. Software platforms can now sugge

How can bulk shipping digitalise, what are the main points? Digitalisation of bulk shipping commences at the interface between the shipowner and the charterer. This is where business transpires. It has been noticed in other industries that there is accelerated adoption of digitalisation when there is commercial incentive to do so or when it is a question of survival. It is no different in the bulk cargo sector. The tipping point may perhaps be apparent when there is a solutio

Digitalisation is a hot discussion topic of today, and what’s on everyone’s lips, is how will it impact shipping? Digital developments will provide opportunities and benefits but the industry-wide digital transition will take time. Here is an attempt at answering a few common questions: In general what are the biggest challenges in the bulk segment currently? The bulk segment was navigating its way out of the doldrums towards the end of 2018 with positive cash flows. The reco

We are all familiar with phones & the connectivity it has given us. The analogue rotary phones were cabled, but the modern cell phones are wireless & allows us to do more, in fact much more than what the landline allowed. It took over 130 years to get about 1.25 billion landline phones installed. However, by the end of 2019 in just about 12 years from its inception, it is estimated that there will be 5 billion smart phone subscriptions. It demonstrates the ‘power to scale’ wi

Recession in shipping is blamed partly on oversupply of vessels. When you look at number and tonnage of existing ships and the new-build orders, one finds Greek owners are front runners in both areas. But then one wonders why they want to add to the glut with new-builds when they already own so much floating tonnage. The Greeks have historically been adept at riding the shipping market cycles. Their traditional business sweet spot has arguably not been maritime transportation

In a previous blog, I had discussed the evolution of data and communication in the marine industry and how predictive analytics is the next big thing. By presenting possible near-future scenarios like upcoming bad weather, a sudden decrease in engine efficiency, or a more fuel-efficient route, predictive analytics means your key personnel can make more informed decisions to improve safety and efficiency. However, the best information is of little use if it is not viewed by th

Information is vital for business. Relevant information received at the right time has always given a competitive advantage. It is interesting to see how information in the shipping industry has evolved over time – the most vital pieces of information have not significantly changed for centuries. This information includes: How much cargo can the ship carry? When will the ship arrive at the port? How much time is required to load the cargo? When will the ship depart from the p

My LinkedIn journey did not start as a conscious attempt to build a brand or establish a presence online. It all started when I joined Linkedin and began to build a network as an MBA student. A group for like-minded classmates was formed. There were about 60 of us sharing thoughts, ideas and research information. Then people started asking if they could join us – first juniors, then seniors. Now this same group has over 5000 members. Today, the profile is amongst the most c

Affordable Care Act (ACA) was brought in to increase overall healthcare and expand medical coverage for all. Under the act signed on 23rd March 2010, hospitals and primary healthcare centres would transform financially, technologically, and clinically to drive better health outcomes, lower costs, and improve their methods of distribution and accessibility. When you look at relative parallels in the shipping industry, you will realise you don’t need to look far. We sat down a