How Maritime Organizations Can Eliminate Costly Tech Problems Immediately

The Cost of Downtime in the Maritime Industry

Just think back to the MGM data breach over the summer: electronic room keys failed, casinos shut down, and even online restaurant reservations were unavailable. That downtime cost MGM millions. Now, apply that level of disruption to a port’s cargo management system or a maritime exchange’s real-time tracking network – every second of downtime can be disastrous.

But downtime is only one way bad IT support can cripple your maritime operations. Add in constant frustrations like forgotten passwords, system lag, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, or trouble accessing shared operational data, and the pile of inefficiencies starts to look like a mountain.

The Problem with Reactive IT Support

Far too often, ports, pilotage authorities, and maritime exchanges end up paying for IT support that barely manages to solve the simplest problems. These so-called “IT experts,” who promise world-class service at bargain-bin prices, often spend more time reacting to problems than proactively preventing them – waiting for YOU to tell THEM something’s broken.

You don’t have to settle for tech headaches and reactive IT support that only shows up after the damage is done. It’s time to demand better and ELIMINATE tech problems before they start.

To help, we’ve created a checklist of essential standards that any IT provider managing your maritime network should meet. See how your current provider measures up:

Is Your IT Support Up to the Task?

• Do they answer their phone LIVE and respond to emergencies within 30 minutes?
  When a critical system goes down, waiting on hold or leaving voicemails isn’t an option.
• Are they easy to reach and responsive for non-emergencies, with responses within an hour?
  Everyday tech issues shouldn’t leave your team stuck in limbo.
• Do they proactively monitor, patch, and update your network’s critical security settings?
  If you’re unsure whether this happens daily, weekly – or at all – you’re likely at risk.
• Do they provide proof that ALL your data is being backed up, including vessel tracking and operational management systems?
  A trustworthy IT provider ensures nothing slips through the cracks.
• Do they meet with you at least quarterly to review projects, performance, and improvements?
  Great IT support doesn’t just fix problems – it helps you plan for the future.
• Do their invoices clearly explain what you’re paying for?
  No one likes surprises, especially when it comes to billing.
• Do they explain what they’re doing in plain language, not “geek-speak,” and take the time to answer your questions?
  You shouldn’t need a translator to understand your IT provider.
• Do they proactively discuss cybersecurity, recommend solutions, and offer employee training?
  Cybersecurity isn’t optional, and employee education is a critical layer of defense.
• Have they provided you with complete network documentation, including admin passwords?
  If they’re holding the “keys to the kingdom” hostage, it’s a huge red flag.
• Do their techs arrive on time, dress professionally, and leave you confident after every interaction?
  Professionalism matters – if you cringe every time you call, it’s time to move on.

Bonus Points: Is Your IT Provider Going Above and Beyond?

• Do they conduct regular disaster recovery drills to ensure your backups actually work?
  A backup is useless if it fails when you need it most.
• Are they helping you plan for scalable growth with technology that evolves alongside maritime regulations and operations?
  The right IT partner ensures your systems grow with your organization.
• Do they offer advanced cybersecurity tools, like endpoint detection and AI-driven monitoring?
  Cyberthreats are always evolving – your protection should be too.
• Do they track and optimize your network’s performance to prevent bottlenecks and downtime?
  Efficiency is critical in today’s maritime industry.

Time to Raise the Bar

If your current IT provider doesn’t check all these boxes, you’re likely paying for subpar service – and it could be putting your organization at risk. From security vulnerabilities to lost productivity, poor IT support is more than just an inconvenience – it’s a liability.

Don’t settle for anything less than a partner who prioritizes the efficiency, security, and success of your port, pilotage authority, or maritime exchange.