seatec - Finnish marine technology review 1/2016 | Page 25

authority of the classification societies, and in effect, the role of the classifiers has grown.” LISTEN TO THE CUSTOMER Seppo Liukkonen observes that another thing that is changing within the classification societies is customer-orientation. Innovation and Technology www.meyerturku.com With over 50 classification societies worldwide, the competition can be brutal: “As classification societies are seeking to become more efficient, one must learn to serve the customer better and better,” he says. Taking an additional advisory role is part of this process: it is not enough anymore if classification societies go around reading the rulebook, they must offer real support to the customer. “We must find ways to do this so that we do not hinder the progress of the industry as such – and still remain true to our core commitment which is safety.” “ With over 50 classification societies worldwide, the competition can NEW A60 SLIDING FIRE DOORS be brutal. 110 W max 40 0 0 Hmax 3000 GOING DIGITAL Both Kaljala and Liukkonen note that information technology poses challenges to the expertise of the classifiers. Kaljala • SINGLE • DOUBLE • TANDEM notes that education is the key here: “We are constantly developing our in-house training and tools for surveyors, and utilising more and more ICT opportunities along the way.” Liukkonen admits freely that “old-school” classifiers are a far cry from digital experts: “The emerging digital tools are something totally Big size Hmax 3000mm, Wmax 4000mm Low construction space requirement only 110mm Easy installation by bolting or welding new in the industry, but fortunately the younger generation is learning how to use them – and eventually, the entire ­maritime will be transformed,” he believes. n www.parmarine.fi [email protected] seatec 1/2016 23