‘True collaboration at its best’ – that’s how Richard Morton, secretary general of the International Port Community Systems Association (IPCSA), describes the work by maritime NGOs to drive forward the standardisation of data at ISO level.

IPCSA is one of a group of maritime NGOs which are seeking to co-create a global digital ISO standard for the exchange of administrative and operational maritime data. Ensuring that vessels use harmonised data standards will ensure clear communication and open the door for improvements such as optimising port calls, reducing emissions and cutting berth waiting time.

The proposal is to work together to create a single, neutral technical standard under ISO Technical Committee 8 for administrative and operational data.  The aim is for this Committee  to continue the work on alignment of ISO 28005 to the IMO Compendium, assuming responsibility for defining the information exchange needs and application program interfaces (APIs) between ship and shore.

“IPCSA is delighted to be part of the global drive towards international standards and supporting international standard organisations,” says Richard Morton. “IPCSA has formed its own task force for Just in Time/port call optimisation and its members are committed to supporting the development of international standards for all types of vessels. This IPCSA technical and collaboration work is being led jointly by IPCSA members from Portnet in Morocco and the Port of Rotterdam.”

He adds: “IPCSA is looking forward to sharing our experience and knowledge of standards and data harmonisation. We are pleased that so many organisations have agreed to collaborate; this is true collaboration at its best.”