It’s no secret that sailing is becoming more popular, and it’s hard to think of a better way to enjoy the romance of the ocean than on a yacht. But managing such a large vessel can be time-consuming, which is why software with powerful capabilities is becoming popular.
However, you’ll find that there is a lot of available software in the market and it can be confusing to choose the best ones for you. With the help of these tips, you may be able to find the best yacht management software and most compatible app for your vessel. Here are some things to know. Also, you can prefer RYA Yachtmaster course that certificate will enable you to confidently work towards your Yachtmaster Coastal or Yachtmaster Offshore practical qualification.
About these Software Solutions
A yacht management software is a specialized program that allows users to manage the information and transactions of a yacht. This includes keeping track of the yacht’s crew, chartering, fuel costs, and more. One of the advantages of having the program is that it helps captains avoid costly mistakes in their operations. It also keeps them up-to-date on maintenance, accounting, hours of rest, and other features that many people find extremely helpful.
Factors to Help you Decide
1. Purpose: You need to determine first why you need the program in the first place. The software can be categorized into three which are the following:
- Total Solutions – These may contain the modules of the entire vessel, including inventory, charter management, ISM, accounting, and updates.
- Planned Maintenance – This is a feature that’s ideal for the engineering department, but they are also considered helpful on deck. They can remind everyone about the upkeep and maintenance and low fuel before sailing.
- Administrative Solutions – These may include accounting, finances, and others related to the business side of running a yacht.
2. Features: You need to know the features to add, which will depend on the program’s purpose. These may be features like barcode scanners for accounting, and others are simply maintenance alerts for the crew. Choose the ones that matter the most and don’t buy those who are not suited for the yacht.
3. Usability: One of the more critical aspects of the software is usability. Nowadays, the crew comes from all backgrounds and ages with degrees of technical competencies. This is a logical workflow and user-friendly interface that can be prioritized. Simplicity is one of the keys to more successful management.
In some cases, crew turnover will be inevitable, whether it’s for the cooks, department heads, captains, and managers. Having a solution onboard can be easily mastered and understood when there’s software that will facilitate the training and data entry. Learn more about the software on this page. The user interface should also not be cluttered and easy to navigate.
What to Do?
- First, assess the type of yacht that you have. This affects what models and features you will select so the programs will be compatible.
- Second, choose between a subscription-based or lifetime license model, and many companies may offer both.
- Third, decide on whether you want a cloud-based system, if you need customization, or if you want extras like remote access and API integration.
- Fourth, assess the cost of the yacht management software – does it have any fee that might not be included in the initial price?
- The last step is finding out what services are being offered and if you could customize this according to your needs.
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Considerations
There are many important considerations when choosing yacht management software. Some of them are the following:
- The program should be easy to understand and use with clear instructions.
- It should have strong features that allow you to manage your time better while on your boat.
- It should have an attractive design that makes it appealing and easy to use.
- The features should be able to import your business contacts’ information as well as other information such as insurance to the proper database.
- Finally, the software must be compatible with all of your devices, such as computers and mobile phones.
You now have a list of qualities you would like your yacht management software to have, you’ll become wiser in choosing one that will be an excellent fit for your vessel. Once you’ve installed it successfully, it can help you with various tasks without the need to monitor it 24/7, and you’ll be safer while you’re at sea.