About the series

OneOcean has partnered with maritime innovation research specialist Thetius to launch a new two-part research series examining how digitalisation is changing the reality of modern bridge operations.

The series comprises two research reports and two webinars, exploring how shipping has become more connected, data-rich and digitally complex, while the way crews are prepared and supported has not always kept pace.

The first report

The first report in the series, Decision-optimised or overloaded? Rethinking the use of digital tools on a digitalised bridge, examines how digital navigation is reshaping bridge operations and what this means for safety, performance, and operational resilience.

Digital navigation systems have improved the capabilities of modern bridge teams, but these improvements have also changed the nature of bridge work. The bridge is no longer only a navigation hub; it is now part of a wider digital operating environment that connects voyage execution, performance management, emissions reporting, compliance and shoreside oversight.

The report outlines that the main challenge for crews is not a lack of information. In many cases, crews now have more information than ever before. The central issue is whether that information is presented in a way that supports safe and effective decision-making.

Download the report

The first webinar

Following the release of the first report in the OneOcean and Thetius thought leadership research series, this webinar brings together industry experts to explore the workforce challenges facing the maritime sector and the actions organisations can take to attract, develop and retain talent. Hosted by Nick Chubb, the discussion features insights from industry leaders, including OneOcean’s Barry Hooper, on the role of training, competency and technology in building a more resilient maritime workforce.

The second report

The second report in the series, Competent or compliant? Seafarer readiness in modern maritime operations, examines the widening gap between formal qualification and genuine operational readiness among today’s seafarers.

Crews are progressing through the ranks faster than ever, yet the demands placed on them onboard continue to grow. The report finds that certification alone is no longer a reliable indicator of whether a crew member is ready to perform under pressure. STCW remains fundamental to global shipping, but companies must still build the bridge between qualifications and day-to-day operational performance on their own vessels.

Drawing on a survey of experienced maritime professionals, the report outlines that just 18% believe current training and certification models prepare crews well for modern operations. The remaining 82% describe them as neutral, poorly aligned, or very poorly aligned with the realities of life onboard.

Download the report

The second webinar

Building on the findings of the second report in the research series, our second webinar examines the relationship between compliance and competency in maritime operations. Industry experts discuss whether current approaches to training and assessment are sufficient to prepare seafarers for increasingly complex operational environments, and what organisations can do to move beyond compliance towards genuine capability development. The session features Elif Pitirli, Product Manager at OneOcean, alongside a panel of maritime industry specialists.