Norcontrol IT has recently concluded the installation of a complete Port Operations System for the Tees & Hartlepool Port Authority. The system has been designed to be one the world’s most robust vessel traffic management applications, and is capable of handling high volumes of traffic.
Unlike most vessel traffic database applications, which merely record visits, vessel data, and related events and details, this next generation VTS Database (VDB) functions as the cornerstone of the ports' operational business systems. The application takes the first booking for a vessel, generates a unique reference number for each visit, and with that number facilitates the management of a vessel's visit from arrival to departure.
"Tees and Hartlepool required a user friendly, logical system that was stable and quick to update, as well as networked but with the necessary security to protect data. The database needed to store data and cater for subsequent analysis within the application as well as allow statistical analysis through other applications," says Dan Aldridge, Norcontrol IT Project Manager. "I can say with confidence that Norcontrol IT delivered such a system."
The VTS Database incorporates risk management and operational decisions support tools, informing operators of what the Ports Operational Procedures require for each given movement. Along with a financial function that generates invoices for port services, such as pilots, tugs, cargo operations, conservancy, this next generation VTS Database interfaces with a number of external systems, such as container management software and resource management software. The system also distributes information on vessel movements to the wider user community via Internet and Intranet.
Before becoming fully operational the new VTS Database ran in parallel with the old database for three weeks, thus ensuring a smooth transition of data and allowing operators to ease into the new system. "As a customer focused technology provider, we understand the customer's needs and can sort out problems with minimum disruption to the business," comments Aldridge.
Norcontrol IT offers VTS database applications that deliver functionality on three levels: Entry, Professional, and Enterprise. The Tees and Hartlepool database is a Professional Level solution. The Enterprise Level database includes a graphical Berth Planning function and an Executive Information System allowing quick and easy access to a businesses' Key Performance Indicators. It will be released in 2003.