Geospatial Solution for Safety-Critical Maritime Use Sets Global Benchmark for Chart Automation

Esri, the global leader in location intelligence, announced today that the Shom (French Hydrographic and Oceanographic Office) has officially adopted Custom Chart Builder (CCB) for automated production of all paper nautical charts. Following extensive testing and configuration, Shom confirmed that CCB-generated charts meet the stringent safety standards required by the French Navy, marking a pivotal advancement in automating maritime cartography and reinforcing its role as a pioneer in maritime digital transformation.

“This adoption demonstrates that high-quality, regulation-compliant paper charts can now be produced without manual intervention, dramatically reducing production time and cost,” said Rafael Ponce, Esri principal maritime consultant. “Shom’s endorsement validates Esri’s CCB as a trusted solution for hydrographic offices worldwide, supporting the transition to digital-first workflows and e-navigation.”

Over the course of 2024, Shom evaluated multiple software solutions and selected Esri’s CCB suite for its ability to automate chart creation from Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs). After a successful collaboration on development—including Shom’s customized symbology—Shom achieved a rendering quality that met the operational standards of the French Navy. The result is a scalable, efficient solution that preserves safety and compliance while enabling significant resource savings.

“Thanks to Esri’s Custom Chart Builder, Shom has modernized its chart production workflow without compromising safety,” said Nicolas David, who serves as chief of the Cartographic Department at Shom and led the CCB testing. “The CPENC [Certified Printed ENC] provided by Shom does not present any significant differences compared to conventional nautical charts.”

Esri’s CCB is designed for maritime agencies, defense organizations, and hydrographic offices seeking to streamline chart production while maintaining regulatory standards. It supports the transition to S-100-based digital products by freeing staff to focus on them, and also helps organizations balance legacy needs with future demands.

Esri recognized Shom’s achievement with a Special Achievement in GIS Award at the 2025 Esri User Conference. Discussions are now underway to integrate Shom’s configurations into future CCB releases, benefiting and enabling more out-of-the-box charting capabilities for other hydrographic offices. Shom also plans to share its FME-based developments and expertise to support global adoption.

To learn more about how Esri can help professionals in the maritime industry meet changing standards in nautical charting, visit esri.com/en-us/arcgis/products/arcgis-maritime/overview.

Source: BUSINESS WIRE