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The maritime industry is undergoing a profound transformation, with the rising importance of harnessing a range of big data sources such as AIS (Automatic Identification System) data to identify and manage potential risks. AIS data provides real-time information on vessel positions, movements, and activities, enabling maritime companies to make informed decisions and optimise operations. However, as the volume and complexity of AIS data increases, the need for efficient and scalable data delivery mechanisms becomes critical. Whether it's ensuring real-time access to vessel data or securely handling large, complex datasets, how companies ingest and manage this information can significantly impact performance and competitiveness.

 

The Shift Toward Custom Data Platforms

Traditionally, maritime companies relied on predefined platforms offered by third-party providers to ingest, process, and utilise data. However, in recent years, there has been a significant shift in how organisations manage their data integration needs. Many are now choosing to build their own data platforms and workflows, allowing for a tailored experience that suits specific operational needs.

This transition is driven by several factors:

  • Technology and Availability: Improvements in cloud data delivery and warehousing technologies makes it easier to integrate a wider range of datasets for analysis on demand.
  • Customisation and Control: By building their own platforms, organisations can customise the way they receive, process, and act on data. This ensures the data fits seamlessly into existing workflows and systems.
  • Agility and Scalability: In-house platforms allow for greater flexibility and scalability. As the organisation’s data needs grow, they can adjust the platform’s capabilities without relying on a third-party provider’s updates.
  • Advanced Analytics: With their own platforms, companies can integrate and leverage a wider range of datasets (different vendors, internal and public) to create a more comprehensive understanding of the market and identify trends and patterns for actionable insights.

For companies in the maritime industry, where timely and accurate AIS positions data is critical, utilising a custom-built data platform is increasingly becoming a strategic necessity.

 

Exploring Data Delivery Mechanisms

Organisations in the maritime sector now have a range of options when it comes to accessing and consuming data. Popular delivery mechanisms are Snowflake, APIs, and traditional data extracts delivered via SFTP. Each has its own advantages, making it suitable for different use cases.

Snowflake is the gold standard for companies with high data volumes and complex processing needs. It supports real-time updates, ensuring that maritime companies have continuous access to the most up-to-date information. The platform’s in-built data transformation capabilities streamline complex workflows, allowing for more seamless integration into various operations. Snowflake’s on-demand data storage is perfect for organisations needing instant access to large datasets, without the delays often associated with traditional storage methods. Moreover, its multi-layered security infrastructure adheres to rigorous compliance standards, providing peace of mind in terms of data protection. This makes Snowflake ideal for companies requiring continuous updates and sophisticated data transformations to drive real-time decision-making.

APIs offer a flexible alternative, particularly for organisations with medium complexity and slightly less demanding real-time needs. APIs can be integrated into different software systems providing access for organisations to consume a range of different data types at frequency’s they can determine. This is often acceptable in many non-urgent maritime applications. However, APIs usually require an ELT (Extract, Load, and Transform) layer that require data transformation processes to be built, adding a level of complexity and management. APIs are transactional in nature and accessed via the internet, as such, they can be prone to disruptions if there are issues in the pipeline or network dropouts. APIs are best suited for non-relational data that can tolerate slight delays due to processing time.

For simpler, less frequent data transfers, SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) remains a reliable method for data extracts. It’s particularly well-suited for one-off data sharing, such as the transfer of historical data where real-time access isn’t required or custom data requests. SFTP is known for its low complexity, making it easy to implement for basic tasks. However, it falls short in a few areas compared to Snowflake and API. SFTP transfers are typically scheduled as daily or one-time events, meaning there’s no continuous data feed, which can be a major drawback in fast-paced maritime environments. Despite these limitations, SFTP is still a practical solution for organisations needing straightforward, bulk data transfers with limited security concerns.

 

Finding the Right Balance

For maritime companies, choosing the right data delivery method depends on the specific needs of the organisation. If the goal is to process complex datasets in real time, Snowflake provides the best solution. For more transactional or less time-sensitive data, APIs offer a solid middle ground. SFTP, while less advanced, continues to serve niche use cases where simplicity and one-off transfers are required.

As the industry continues to evolve, the ability to integrate data seamlessly into operations will be key to remaining competitive. By understanding the benefits and limitations of different delivery methods, maritime companies can make informed decisions that will drive efficiency, security, and innovation across their operations.

Here’s why Snowflake is gaining traction:

  • Real-Time Data Availability: Snowflake’s architecture supports real-time data ingestion, ensuring that maritime operators can access the most current information to make timely decisions.
  • Built-in Data Transformation: Unlike other methods that may require separate Extract, Load, and Transform (ELT) layers, Snowflake offers integrated data transformation capabilities. This simplifies the data processing workflow and reduces complexity.
  • Superior Security: In an industry where data security is paramount, Snowflake provides a robust, multi-layered security system that complies with global data protection standards, offering peace of mind to maritime companies.

Snowflake also excels when it comes to scalability. As maritime data grows in both volume and complexity, Snowflake’s on-demand data storage and processing capabilities ensure that companies can expand their operations without experiencing performance degradation.

 

Meeting your Data Requirements

As the industry continues to evolve, the ability to integrate data seamlessly into operations will be key to remaining competitive. By understanding the benefits and limitations of different delivery methods, maritime companies can make informed decisions that will drive efficiency, security, and innovation across their operations.

The future of the maritime industry is inextricably linked with the ability to harness data effectively especially AIS positions data. Whether leveraging Snowflake’s robust real-time capabilities, flexible APIs, or SFTP’s simplicity, organisations now have more tools than ever to unlock insights and optimise their operations. As the industry evolves, so too will the methods of data delivery—paving the way for smarter, more agile maritime operations.

 

Seamless Migration to a Superior Data Solution

For organisations looking to transition from legacy systems or other data providers, we offer comprehensive support to ensure a smooth and efficient migration process. Our team of experts works closely with your organisation to map out your data needs, handle complex integrations, and ensure minimal disruption to your operations. Whether you’re moving from an existing API setup, cloud infrastructure, or other third-party systems, we make the switch to our solutions as seamless as possible. With a focus on ease of use, security, and efficiency, our flexible data delivery options are designed to get you up and running quickly—so you can immediately start unlocking the full potential of your AIS data.

Ready to optimise your data integration strategy? Visit our AIS+ page to explore how we can help transform your maritime operations.