ABS: Connectivity Is Key for Smarter Industry Decisions
Image Courtesy: ABSAs the marine industry moves to harness the potential of data to make smarter decisions, connectivity will be a key driver for the future, according to the classification society American Bureau of Shipping (ABS).
Data collection, security, management and analytics will serve as the catalyst for improved decision-making and enhanced class services for marine and offshore assets, Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman, President and CEO, said during the organization’s 155th annual meeting.
In his comments, Wiernicki examined the Fourth Industrial Revolution and how digitization, connectivity, systems automation and cybersecurity are shaping the future of the shipping industry.
“ABS is the technical connector for owners, operators, vessels and crews, aligning regulations and leading independent rule development to support safer and more sustainable operations,” Wiernicki added.
The meeting also highlighted ABS’ performance in 2016, as ABS maintained the number one position in the global orderbook and the ABS-classed fleet surpassed 240 million gross tons (MGT), with 39 MGT on order at the close of the year. Another record milestone, the size of the existing fleet, represents a seven percent average annual growth rate over the last decade.
“Despite a year of navigating challenging market conditions, ABS remained resilient and delivered solid performance in 2016,” Wiernicki said.
