Marlink deploys smart network technology with hybrid connectivity to drive Odfjell’s cloud-based digital strategy
Leading shipmanagement company signs new contract to ensure access to unified global IT infrastructure with intelligent data routing
Oslo and Paris, 26.10.2022 – Marlink, the smart network solutions company, has signed a renewal agreement with Odfjell Management AS, providing seamless access to global enterprise and crew applications across 52 vessels.
The contract includes 43 vessels managed by Odfjell Management Norway and a further nine operated by Thome Management Singapore. Marlink will deploy its hybrid connectivity solution to the fleet, including high throughput VSAT, L-band and 4G services using software-defined routing (SD-WAN) for seamless, intelligent data flow via Marlink’s onboard XChange router.
The fleet uses standard IT tools including Microsoft Office 365 in its daily operations with MS-Teams used for meetings and document sharing. Odfjell will also take advantage of the growing availability of 4G coverage from shore and will utilize Marlink’s global 4G service for business connectivity when in range, benefiting from low latency and high throughput speeds.
Odfjell’s decision to select Marlink was driven by the company’s digitalisation strategy, which involved moving IT services to the cloud, with the philosophy that all ships should have similar tools and services to its shore-based offices.
This hybrid approach is enabled by Marlink’s SD-WAN solution, which assigns key applications to different connectivity links, enabling software to be configured and delivered ‘as a service’ rather than as installed programs subject to performance and connectivity issues.
Odfjell Ship Management provides an integrated solution that promotes safe, reliable and efficient operations, including crewing, Quality, Health, Safety, Security, Environment (QHSSE) management, technology support and digital innovation, newbuilding, energy efficiency solutions and overall fleet management. Its vessels must comply not just with international regulations but with the industry’s environmental management systems such as Tanker Management Self-Assessment.
Odfjell is continuously seeking new ways of using technology to develop digital solutions that fuel growth and value creation, while reducing cost and increasing operational efficiency and safety, says Gunnar Eide, Manager Digital Applications at Odfjell. The Marlink smart hybrid connectivity approach gives us better access to and response from the fleet’s ERP systems. This will greatly improve the communication between ship and shore, it will provide extra efficiency during port rotations, and increase the crew’s opportunities to keep in touch with their family and friends at home.
Shipowners, operators and managers are changing the conversation around what a technology partner like Marlink can bring to them that supports their business and meets long term customer needs, says Tore Morten Olsen, President, Maritime, Marlink. By combining the best in connectivity choices with new software tools, we can help them achieve their goals for voyage efficiency, remain compliant and retain the best people to support their mission.
About the Odfjell Group
The Odfjell Group is one of the world leaders in the global market for seaborne transportation and storage of chemicals and other specialty bulk liquids. Established in 1914, Odfjell pioneered the development of the chemical tanker trade in the 1950s and the tank storage business in the late 1960s. Today, the Odfjell fleet comprises approx. 90 ships, which trade both globally and regionally. The tank terminal division consists of four tank terminals, strategically located at selected shipping hubs in the USA, Korea and Belgium. The Odfjell Group’s headquarters are in Bergen, Norway, and the Group has offices in 13 locations around the world. Odfjell employs around 2300 staff and posted annual gross revenue of USD 1038 million in 2021.
Please visit www.odfjell.com for more information.
About Marlink
Marlink is the trusted partner in fully managed smart network solutions, based on an intelligent hybrid network and unrivalled digital solutions.
The company provides Smart Network Solutions, connecting people and assets around the globe and across all markets where conventional connectivity cannot reach or is not available. Marlink’s Intelligent Hybrid Network combines global satcom and terrestrial technologies via a proprietary global infrastructure.
The Marlink Smart Edge, an integrated service delivery platform, orchestrates and optimises all network elements and applications, from data handling and IT to application-based routing (SD Wan), cloud and Digital Solutions, including remote data and IT, cyber security as well as IoT/OT solutions.
This provides customers with full ‘Peace of Mind’ that their chosen network solution is fully optimised, integrated and has the security required to operate more profitably and sustainably, increasing their efficiency and safety through operational optimisation, tracking and routing, monitoring and reporting.
Marlink’s Smart Network Solutions are provided as Managed Services meeting the highest quality standards and service level agreements. The company proactively monitors and supports network solutions, providing alerts, reporting and insights on performance and usage of connectivity, systems, and applications as well as advice and consultancy on how to further optimise customer networks.