We were aligned and in agreement from the very start of the SIM Project and we found the first and second reports of great interest and value.
We also understand there are safety consequences to teams on board feeling isolated; and during our initial chats with ISWAN we explored the possibility of what data was missing from the maritime sector and where the gaps were. We found that a lack of data meant that companies were approaching issues like safety, diversity, and social interaction onboard on a company per company basis rather than having any strategic guidance to draw best practices from.
We are also great believers in collaboration and working together, and by agreeing to be the data provider for such an important issue we could draw from the expertise of ISWAN and enable ISWAN to conduct a really valuable project which will have a lasting impact on shipping, cruise and yacht management companies and the maritime sector.
What is SeaQ and what role will it play in the SIM Project?
SeaQ is the name of the data collection service which PsyFyi created. It can be customised to individual organisations as a continuous service or a one-off project. For ISWAN it will be used to collect, collate and analyse the anonymous responses which PsyFyi will be collecting daily.
This is the first time that the cruise and superyacht industries are included in research of this kind. How do you think this will impact the data collected?
SeaQ collects anonymous data from individual vessels which means for the first time the maritime sector will have visibility to the unique challenges different industries and their crew face (including unique data from specific vessel types, sizes and trades).
This can only encourage a conversation which develops the use of best practice management which is unique to different industries, rather than a ‘one size fits all’ approach which is the current norm.
Why is the data you will collect so important to this project?
Data, in general, is an important component which helps businesses make smarter, more informed decisions. We already collect a wealth of data on the vessels themselves; for example, how to economise bunker consumptions; optimal and proactive routing; and data on the hardware on board the vessels themselves. The missing element has for a long time been the human element and getting visibility on how seafarers are doing.
Collecting data on the human element which looks at efficient and effective safe working practices is incredibly valuable to a sector that relies so heavily on remote workers. If we can truly identify the drivers behind behaviour and enable seafarers to work more efficiently and effectively, then we can reduce accidents and fatigue and ensure the maritime sector stays sustainable. Best practice management with the human in mind!
What are your hopes for the outcomes of this research?
Long term – research and findings which really drive a want and ambition to enhance welfare betterment at a regulatory level. In the short term, starting and supporting conversations with all the stakeholders in the maritime sector who are curious to see the effects that current working conditions are impacting behaviours on board. In particular with this project, we would love to dispel the myth that WiFi and internet on board are a major reason for reduced social interaction. Perhaps we’ll prove that some simple tweaks and incentives will motivate crews to spend more time together.
Find out more about all the SIM Project’s partners and the next steps for the research here.
