Digitalization in the shipping industry is accelerating; however, in the dry bulk sector, traditional tools like spreadsheets and PDFs remain prevalent. Developers transitioning from tech-centric roles may find this shift challenging, yet for Isabella Tan and Gaspar Dax Sorbito of Klaveness, it adds depth and meaning to their work. They focus on creating tools that align with real-world workflows, enabling progress in an industry ripe for innovation. Tan observes that shipping emphasizes integrating into users’ established workflows compared to tech environments, which prioritize performance and cutting-edge technologies.
Sorbito shares that understanding industry terminology and adjusting expectations is essential. The challenge lies in balancing user needs with feasible delivery, allowing for practical applications of product thinking that genuinely make a difference. A significant challenge in dry bulk shipping is data fragmentation. Tan explains that information is dispersed across various stakeholders and systems, complicating the generation of actionable insights.
Developers like Tan and Sorbito work to design tools that simplify complex data. An example is the Port Predictor, which leverages AIS data to provide users with informed vessel arrival predictions, ensuring that designs correspond with user thought processes. Looking to the future, Tan and Sorbito believe the sector can transform from reactive to proactive operations. Enhanced visibility into port schedules and vessel statuses could revolutionize freight management.
They see artificial intelligence playing a key role in this shift, suggesting decisions and analyzing data—but stress the need for a reliable, centralized information source. Importantly, Tan and Sorbito emphasize the importance of trust and reliability in their work. They commit to building secure systems and ensuring client data protection, maintaining that trust is foundational. Tan appreciates the unique nature of her role, aiming to deliver impactful solutions that improve lives in an underserved industry.
Sorbito highlights the need for patience and curiosity, noting that the ultimate reward comes from user satisfaction.