Malta Freeport Terminals has completed an upgrade of its terminal operating system (TOS), managing the move to version 3.7 of the Navis N4 platform using only remote support provided by the application provider.
Travel restrictions had prevented technical staff from travelling to the facility, but Malta Freeport Terminals (MFT) was determined to stick to its existing timeline to complete the upgrade. The remote roll-out option was created in an attempt to make this happen.
“With the flow of trade being more important than ever, we are constantly looking to invest in cutting-edge ways to improve our services and scale our business. Upgrading to N4 3.7 enables MFT to utilise the new generation of RTG (rubber-tyred gantry) optimisation with semi automation features,” said Jesmond Baldacchino, Head of IT at Malta Freeport Terminals.
“Ahead of the remote go-live, our team completed a risk assessment to mitigate any potential issues that could arise, and, along with the Navis team, determined it was the right course of action to move forward. We are thrilled with the outcome and appreciate the level of support Navis provided us throughout the complete process.”
Container terminal MFT currently handles trade volumes of nearly 3 million TEU annually, and began the upgrade project in Q4 of 2019 before completing the process on May 1, 2020.
“This is a strategic shift for Navis as a company and proud moment for our team. As a partner to our customers, we want to support them to manage their business more efficiently under any circumstances,” said Chuck Schneider, Chief Customer Officer at Navis.
“Being able to pivot our go-live strategy while still meeting the customer’s deadline for implementation is a true testament to the dedication of both teams. The success of Malta Freeport has paved the way for other terminals with remote upgrades in these unprecedented times and beyond.”