Online maintenance planning and reporting
Argenmar S.A., an Argentine shipping and logistics operator, has been a trusted name in regional and national cabotage trade for over two decades. Specializing in dry bulk trades, the company prides itself on creating efficient and customized logistic solutions for its clients. Facing increasing regulatory requirements, Argenmar adopted SERTICA, a digital fleet management solution, to enhance efficiency and ensure compliance.
Training is key when digitalizing
Once the decision to digitalize was made, Argenmar acted swiftly. Training began in September, starting with office staff as superusers. By November, vessel crews were onboarded, and by December, the system was fully operational across the fleet, replacing manual workflows.
“During implementation, I recommend designating a key person or team to oversee the process, address potential issues, and ensure smooth adoption. Follow ups after implementation help resolve challenges early.”
Andrés Hernan Soto, Fleet Manager at Argenmar
Though the implementation took slightly longer than expected, prior crew experience with SERTICA streamlined the process, yielding positive feedback. One of their crew members noted, “The cloud-based interface is intuitive and appreciated.”
Argenmar’s recommendation? Tailored training sessions for different user roles, with a strong emphasis on hands-on practice.
Compliance and CII Reporting
The Vessel Reporting System (VRS) has transformed Argenmar’s approach to reporting. Key reports are now seamlessly recorded, significantly simplifying the monitoring of compliance metrics, such as the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII). Transitioning from paper-based methods to digital data collection has enhanced accuracy, reduced administrative burdens, and ensured compliance with MARPOL Annex VI and Argentina’s early adoption of Appendix IX regulations.
Argenmar has also set clear routines for tasks such as monitoring and reporting, utilizing dashboards to track performance metrics and pinpoint areas for improvement. They have experienced that it is critical that the crew thoroughly understands reporting concepts like arrival, departure, and noon reports, as these directly impact CII results. By implementing SERTICA VRS, Argenmar has positioned itself as a national leader in regulatory compliance.
In this dashboard, Argenmar is recording total CO2 emissions for each voyage
“Efficiently gathering and presenting information to flag authorities has been a game-changer for us,”
Andrés Hernan Soto, Fleet Manager at Argenmar
Structuring a Planned Maintenance System
Argenmar has implemented structured processes using tools such as the Analytics, Job List, and Certificate Management modules to enhance transparency and control over maintenance routines. Digitalizing maintenance data allows for efficient monitoring of planned and overdue jobs, as well as certificate and equipment status.
Partnering with Martech Systems, Argenmar has built a robust maintenance tree structure and will be using a consistent job structure across equipment, ensuring efficiency and uniformity.
As an example, Argenmar has added recurring jobs scheduled weekly, monthly, and annually on the auxiliary engines in the tree structure.
Looking ahead, Argenmar plans to integrate procurement workflows to enforce stricter control over expenses and purchase orders. Additionally, the company aims to enhance oversight and reduce operational inefficiencies by introducing tablets onboard the vessels for streamlined task management.
The simplicity of a Cloud System
Argenmar is a pioneer in utilizing an integrated digital environment by combining both SERTICA Vessel Reporting System and SERTICA Maintenance. Designed with simplicity at its core, the system offers an intuitive user interface that makes it easy for both crew and office staff to navigate and perform tasks both in relation to Maintenance planning and Reporting.
Operating in a fully cloud-based environment, SERTICA further simplifies technical management by eliminating the need for complex IT setups such as server installations, configurations, and backups. This ensures seamless and reliable access to critical data from both ship and shore and reduces the need for IT resources.
By combining a user-friendly interface with a hassle-free cloud-based setup, Argenmar has created a streamlined operational environment that supports efficiency, collaboration, and informed decision-making.
“Consolidating all tools into one system represents the future—it is easier for both the crew and the office to monitor, control, and improve workflows,”
Andrés Hernan Soto, Argenmar
Tips from Hernan Balzaretti
- Clearly define objectives and align system capabilities
- Dedicate more time to customizing the system to align your specific processes before going live
- Test internet connectivity before going live to avoid data transfer issues
- Encourage consistent use of the system by all departments to maximize its benefits
- Prioritize extensive training and user feedback sessions early in the implementation phase to minimize resistance and ensure a smoother transition
