WHAT’S THE BIG IDEA?
Tobias Allebrodt, looks at the requirement for specific and competent software to work in harmony with a yacht’s safety, compliance and operational needs
Compliance requirements for large yachts can vary depending on the yacht’s flag state, as well as any additional certifications or regulations that the owner may require. For example, some of the most common compliance areas for large yachts include safety management, pollution prevention, plus crew training and certification. To meet these requirements, it’s essential to have software that is tailored to the specific needs of the vessel.
Made in Germany, IDEA YACHT is a trusted software solution within the yachting industry. Since its formation in 2001, they have successfully completed over 1,200 installations, and more than 450 bespoke database set-ups for superyachts, ranging between 20m to more than 180m.
We caught up with IDEA’s Managing Director, Tobias Allebrodt, to find out why having the right yacht management tools are so vital.
Tobias, tell us briefly how you became involved in yachting?
My family has always been enthusiastic about sailing, when I sailed on the ‘Inspiration’ as a young boy in the 1990s it made a lasting impression on me. I took over the reins of IDEA – which my brother founded in 2010 and have never looked back. I’m lucky to be able to combine my passion for the ocean with my business.
How can IDEA help yacht management teams streamline their workflows?
IDEA’s primary function is to provide proper reporting and management tools for yachts and fleets. Our various solutions can be used by owners, shipyards, crew and yacht managers, with an array of different applications; there’s the ability to log crew hours and ensure working hour directive compliance, document repairs on board and track their status, manage all onboard equipment and components, and so much more.
Better integrated reporting and management tools can save the vessel from costly mistakes, miscommunications and importantly, gain your crew valuable time that can be refocussed on ensuring a seamless and faultless onboard experience for the owner and guests.
What are the unique features that IDEA offers?
We pride ourselves on our expertise and track record of building unique databases and our attentiveness in doing so. IDEA YACHT is a flexible and scalable database that can be configured to meet your needs. We endeavour to make it as easy as possible to input, update, and retrieve the data you need.
Then there’s our support, which is second to none, on hand to make sure you are fully up to date with the updates to our software and answer any queries you may have.
What are the latest developments in IDEA’s software?
We’ve recently added a new module called Snag List, which allows you to pinpoint your repairs and maintenance on the GA and log actions, photos and videos all in one place; we’ve also improved our crew check in & out feature. Be sure to visit our website to stay up to date with our latest developments.
What should people do if they want to change their yacht or fleet management software?
We know it can feel daunting and stressful switching your yacht or fleet management tools, but across IDEA YACHT and IDEA FMP we have a team of industry professionals who are continuously looking at ways to improve the platforms and have completed over 1,200 installations. I always say, we do things to the IDEA Standard – first time right.
For more details email [email protected] or visit www.idea-yacht.com