NEW MEMBER PROFILE the client. The web/user interface is very intuitive, but we see a range of in-house expertise and will match our services accordingly,” said English, adding that, with the advent of COVID-19, self-help training videos and an easily accessible user manual have already been incorporated into systems. The usefulness of PortLink during the pandemic cannot be understated. Access to the system is available anywhere there is an internet connection, helping ports achieve isolation and social distancing protocols while still being able to actively monitor and engage in port activities in real-time. And with multiple security platforms and authentication processes, the integrity of the system is strong.
Future growth
PortLink’s growth strategy is twopronged and focuses both on the size of the company as well as developing new, technological innovations. “We’re currently keeping up with demand but we’re always looking for passionate, talented people,” said Vdovin. “In-house quality assurance is important to us and we’re adding new members to the team all the time.” On the technology front, Vdovin and the PortLink team are continually looking for ways to enhance the current systems through big data analysis and artificial intelligence, for example. “We’re also adding in weather forecasting to assist with vessel movements and schedules,” said Vdovin. “For example,
if a threshold is reached a notice will be issued in real-time.” Perhaps the most exciting news for PortLink is the imminent launch of HarbourLink, a cost-effective and user-friendly solution that will allow smaller ports to maximize port operations. Because the system is cloudhosted, there is no need for additional equipment. Vdovin expects to make an announcement of the launch of HarbourLink before the end of the year. To learn more about HarbourLink or any of PortLink’s offerings, please visit www.portlinkglobal.com or email Kris English (Kris.english@portlink.co).
APP MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS Are you taking advantage of many benefits of the APP? Call or email Jane McIvor: 604-893-8800 / jane@pacificports.org to discuss. As drivers of economic growth, facilitating trade and generating thousands of jobs, ports of the Pacific Ocean share a common vision: To provide an efficient, fluid, and cost-effective supply chain in a safe, environmentally sustainable and economically viable manner. The Association of Pacific Ports (APP) assists Member Ports in achieving this vision by enabling the sharing of best practices and lessons learned, peer-to-peer networking, and professional development. Supported by Associate Members who provide a diverse range of solutions for both port operations and management, the APP is building partnerships throughout the Pacific. APP member benefits provide a number of vehicles for you and your colleagues to network, promote best practices and raise awareness of challenges and opportunities. Industry Representation and Collaboration — in addition to working with like-minded organizations on initiatives that improve facets of your business and the maritime industry, the APP participates in government and industry forums as well as key industry events (e.g., Clean Pacific, GreenTech, Seatrade, Pacific Marine Expo), not only to provide representation for Pacific Ports but also to ensure important information is shared throughout the membership. Networking — through conferences and workshops, the APP provides opportunities for you to meet your counterparts from around the Pacific, learn through the sharing of best practices, and to develop life-long relationships with your peers. Promotional opportunities
for Associate Members are also a key part of our agendas through presentations, distribution of materials, and table-top displays designed to heighten awareness of your products and services. Communications & Marketing — all members are invited (and encouraged!) to: • Submit articles, press releases and activity updates for Pacific Ports Magazine as well as our semi-monthly e-news updates and our frequently updated website. Not a writer? That’s okay, we can help. • Three months free web banner advertising on pacificports.org as well as six e-news banner ads (with greatly discounted rates for additional advertising). • Discounted rates for advertising in Pacific Ports Magazine. • Opportunities to present at APP Annual and Winter Conferences. • Participation on themed panel workshops.
Contact Jane McIvor (jane@pacificports.org / 604-893-8800) to discuss your priorities and ideas.
ASSOCIATION OF
PACIFIC PORTS
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