Investigating the operational impact of the implementation of the e-navigation concept through the IHO’s S-100 based products

This dissertation delivers an in-depth analysis of how e-navigation is being implemented operationally, with a close look at its implications for diverse stakeholders involved in maritime operations and navigational practices. Since 2006, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has played a crucial role in advancing e-navigation strategies, working to modernize maritime navigation by integrating advanced technologies. Through an approach that combines various types of maritime data, this study argues that effective data management can substantially improve both the safety and efficiency of navigation. In exploring e-navigation, the research delves into how digital technologies and standardized information exchange can be harmonized to enhance navigation safety, operational efficiency, and environmental protection. With the planned 2026 release of the S-100 Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS), this study examines the anticipated operational shifts that mainstream e-navigation could bring to the industry. Using the Common Maritime Data Structure (CMDS) based on S-100 standards, the study evaluates how consistent data structuring supports enhanced maritime data sharing and informed decision-making. This dissertation uses a dual-method approach, investigating how e-navigation impacts various stakeholders— hydrographic offices, seafarers, and shipping companies—and analyzing the procedural adjustments required for S-100-based navigation products. The findings are grounded in empirical data gathered through stakeholder surveys and specific case studies. The work offers both mid-term and long-term analyses of e-navigation’s potential to improve operational safety and efficiency. The research underscores that effective data acquisition and management are vital for enhancing situational awareness and overall performance in maritime settings. These insights are intended to guide institutional strategies for the successful deployment of e-navigation, furthering the technology-driven evolution of maritime operations. In conclusion, this dissertation highlights the importance of a user-centered approach in implementing e-navigation and S-100 standards to maximize their impact across the sector.