UX in the Transitioning Field of Autonomous Shipping

If we think about autonomous ships, the most prevalent image might be the self-driving, unmanned vessel that navigates the sea without any human interaction. In reality, the vast majority of projects are far away from this state. While some projects showcase the possibility of an unmanned future, for many vessels a remote and reduced crew will be the reality first before becoming fully autonomous eventually. User Experience Design is needed as long as users are involved in any stage of the operation process. The focus of design will change with the focus on staff operation. In the period of transition, any stage of autonomy has to consider being met with a ship that sails in a different state. This means, that even in the case of fully autonomously operating vessels, the human component cannot be disregarded. Meanwhile, it is important to support the users that are actively working on or off the vessels to ensure safe journeys. An often-forgotten user group is engineers. JRCS specifically makes it a priority to support the human element, the engineers, onshore managers, bridge crew and any other crew members involved in keeping sea transportation afloat. That means, we support the digital transformation process of the shipping industry, meeting the user needs right where they are. Some processes require earlier stages of transition, while others require and allow for advanced technological support to optimize procedures and safety. With the establishment of more automated processes, the transition is not only in the direction of reduced crew, but also a transition from offshore to onshore crew. The modes of interaction with a remote vessel, even though an interaction still exists, are vastly different from its original state. The feeling of the situation, the smells and feelings of tangible touch is missing. The way crew members interpret and understand situations changes. Attending onshore crew must now rely on the situation interpretation by sensors and data analyses in exchange for a safer and less shift work-oriented workspace. JRCS is actively working together with their customers, closely listening to our users’ needs while supporting their digital transformation journey at all stages. For on- and off-shore users, navigation support, on vessel operations in the engine room, monitoring solutions and even remote operation. In addition, our own digital transformation has inspired us also to extend the DX transition for autonomy to the level of systems engineering and creation, always working on standardization and exchange between innovators for a better and safer world for seafarers. About the Author: Dr. Renée Schulz is the Lead UX Architect of the Digital Innovation Lab at JRCS Co. Ltd.