Nakilat, DNV and a group of shipyards and system suppliers have teamed up on a joint development project (JDP) to try and improve software reliability during operations, resulting in the publication of a new DNV Recommended Practice.
The JDP, which was initiated in 2020 by Nakilat, also included DNV, shipyards DSME, Hudong, HHI and SHI, and system suppliers ABB, Honeywell, Kongsberg and Wartsila. The group was created to work together on the task of reducing the risk of failures and tackling reliability issues in shipboard computerised software-based systems, leading to the publication of this Recommended Practice (RP) document.
The RP provides guidance on the handling of complex software and computer-based systems throughout a vessel’s life cycle (design, construction, commissioning, and operation), focusing on system integration and software change handling.
The JDP partners suggest that it may be used as a contractual element in newbuilding or conversion projects, or as a guideline for suppliers, system integrators and operators to check compliance and the ongoing status of systems.
The RP can also assist in establishing maintenance plans, service level agreements and life cycle warranties for software, including alignment across sister vessels, and provides recommendations to increase the interoperability and integrability of vessel software and systems to vessels at both the newbuilding and operational phases.
“With one of the largest LNG shipping fleets in the world, we are intimately aware of the importance of Information Technology (IT) integrity in ensuring safe, sustainable and reliable vessel operations,” said Nakilat Chief Executive Officer Abdullah Al-Sulaiti.
“With the experience gained from completing our own fleet-wide digitalisation exercise, we are pleased to be partnering with key players in the industry to share our insights and contribute towards the improvement of vessel IT and computerisation reliability and quality.”
“The newly published RP will act as a key enabler for the safe implementation of new digital technologies onboard, helping other vessel managers and owners to mitigate the risks of digitalisation while improving the safety of the crew, environment, vessel and cargo.”
