Why maritime digital transformation starts in your inbox

You use email every single day to keep your maritime operations sailing smoothly. Your inbox, the heartbeat of communication within your organisation, not only facilitates daily tasks but also holds the key to your maritime digital transformation journey. 

Modernising your email system establishes a foundation to boost operational efficiency, laying the groundwork for more sophisticated integrations within your maritime technology stack. 

In this blog, we discuss what you have to gain with maritime digital transformation and why your email inbox is the best place to get started.

What is maritime digital transformation?

Maritime digital transformation is the process of integrating advanced technologies and automated processes to improve operational efficiency, decision-making, and regulatory compliance in the shipping and logistics industry. Maritime personnel can then focus on high-value tasks instead of manual, administrative tasks. 

Barriers to digital transformation in the maritime industry 

Maritime businesses with long-established processes and systems may find it challenging to adapt to digital technologies. In fact, a lack of standardisation, insufficient user training, and fragmented data and systems are key roadblocks, per an Inmarsat survey. Limited resources and workforce issues also play a role, with many companies hesitant to invest in digital projects due to perceived high costs and a shortage of skilled personnel.

That's why you should kick off your maritime digital transformation project by modernising your inbox. Email is a well-established means of maritime communication and, as such, can help you overcome these typical barriers to new technology adoption:

Resistance to change

‍Maritime companies rely on traditional practices and legacy systems that have existed for years. Taking the first step can feel daunting, especially when there are so many options, and much is at stake. Starting with your email system can help ease this transition because of the familiarity of email. It is also a less-disruptive entry point for digital transformation in maritime.

Cost-saving mindset

‍Investing in a transformation project is usually assumed to be expensive and risky. As a result, only those investments bearing a proven track record gain consideration. An advanced email platform leverages existing infrastructure, technology, and skills, reducing the perceived financial burden.

Fears of job downsizing

‍The shift to digital demands a skilled workforce capable of operating and maintaining new technologies. This requirement makes existing employees apprehensive as they fear losing their jobs. A revamped email management system won't replace maritime workers but empower them to become more efficient and make better-informed decisions.

How to start digital transformation with email modernisation 

Digital projects that prioritise and facilitate successful collaboration are a great start. In fact, the ability to connect and share information in real-time among team members, both onshore and offshore, leads to streamlined operations. 

That's why we recommend starting with your email inbox.

Seamlessly transition to an advanced email platform

Modernising your email platform can be seamlessly accomplished without the need for a complete overhaul of your communication software setup, resulting in minimal disruptions. You are improving on an existing technology to help you organise your projects more efficiently, so you can focus on urgent tasks. For example, email management platforms enable automated data extraction and document management plugins, allowing employees to adapt gradually without disrupting daily operations.

Sedna’s data-driven email platform is purpose-built for the maritime industry. Our approach includes thorough testing, training sessions, and user engagement, resulting in a smooth implementation process. Sedna also provides post-launch support and maintenance via daily calls and periodic adoption reports to ensure a stable and user-friendly solution. 

Automate maritime tasks to enhance operational value 

The maritime sector thrives on a vast network of well-connected people, processes, and technologies. Each of these components is connected by one fundamental technology: email. 

An effective email platform enhances operational value for maritime enterprises. For instance, Sedna's automated cargo tracking feature provides real-time updates on shipment status, enabling precise coordination with partners. Sedna doesn't just process emails; it understands your processes and effectively interacts with your workflows and the tools that drive them.

Leverage a unified email platform for successful collaboration

Successful collaboration establishes clear channels of communication and improves operational efficiency and the ability to tackle industry challenges. 

With Sedna, teams work together in a shared space, eliminating siloed communications and duplication of efforts. It's like having a unified control centre for consolidated data on all maritime operations. Automated workflows in maritime email systems enable streamlined document sharing, information tracking, and status updates. This automation minimises back-and-forth email communication and reduces the risk of errors. 

‍Want to reduce manual tasks and boost efficiency through automation? Learn how Sedna's new AI features are transforming maritime email management.

Implement intelligent integrations

Maritime companies struggle to manage the increasing influx of data distributed across disparate systems. An integrated technology stack allows diverse systems to work seamlessly, enabling efficient data sharing, process automation, and improved decision-making. 

Sedna’s intelligent integrations with applications, or what we call connected apps, ensure that data flows effortlessly across your tech ecosystem. This way, the information captured in your email inboxes easily syncs with other vital applications. These integrations eliminate silos, reduce manual work, and foster a cohesive ecosystem that drives the core goals of digital transformation in maritime: agility, innovation, and enhanced customer experiences.

Interested in leveraging the potential of digital ecosystems for the maritime industry? Explore how maritime partnerships drive transformation. 

Fast-track your implementation timeline

The shipping industry thrives on precision and timeliness. Any delays or errors can lead to financial losses and supply chain disruptions, so your first maritime digital transformation project must be quick and straightforward. Don't fall for the misconception that digital projects are highly time and resource-intensive. This perception discourages potential adopters because they expect immediate disruption in operations and a lengthy time frame to see tangible results.

Sedna offers an average implementation time of six weeks to three months. This accelerated timeline ensures shipping companies benefit from our email platform without enduring extended periods of uncertainty and operational upheaval.

Would you like to reclaim more hours in your day? Discover how Nova Marine stakeholders gained more than 5 hours weekly with the help of Sedna's email management platform.

Set sail with Sedna: Your digital maritime transformation partner

Embarking on a digital maritime project might feel like navigating uncharted waters. But with Sedna as your maritime partner, you have the technology and support for smooth sailing toward your goals. From enhanced collaboration to improved security, our modern maritime email system is a catalyst for change. 

Ready to take the first step in your maritime digital transformation journey? Request a demo with Sedna.