Ports & Pilotage Authorities

Saint John Port Authority

Port Operation & Revenue Tracking System
(PORTS)

Customer Profile

Saint John Port Authority, Port of Saint John

The Saint John Port Authority (SJPA) oversees the day-to-day activities at the Port of Saint John, New Brunswick. The Port of Saint John, the largest seaport in New Brunswick, handles an average of 25 million metric tons of cargo annually and is one of Canada's key ports, one that is recognized for its strategic importance to the nation's trade and economy. It is also part of the critical infrastructures of the municipality and region, providing close to 3,000 direct and indirect jobs. Thus, the port is a cornerstone of the Saint John community, a facilitator of international trade and a part of Canada's transportation infrastructure, providing a marine gateway to global markets.

Business Situation

The computer systems used to manage these daily activities, such as vessel scheduling and lease management, were limiting in both functionality and capability. After 20 years of using the same computer operating system, the SJPA decided to shop for a replacement. They needed a new system that provided a more secure and efficient way of operating the port and tracking revenue. Nicom was selected, over many proposal respondents, to design and develop a replacement system that would finally allow the SJPA to retire their antiquated legacy system.

Solution

Through a series of stakeholder meetings and key user interviews, Nicom gathered the system requirements which, once prioritized, became the foundation of the Port Operation & Revenue Tracking System (PORTS). The design went through several revisions to ensure the system would not only meet the port's current needs but also provide the flexibility required for future expansion and enhancement. The application was developed using Microsoft Visual Basic working in tandem with distributed COM controls, a Microsoft SQL Server database and a Microsoft IIS web server. The final product provides an integrated vessel scheduling, billing, and lease management system, as well as a web-based hazardous goods certificate system.

Benefits

Data entry and invoicing have been streamlined and powerful reporting has been provided that allow users to generate real-time analytical reports for the first time. Detailed reports can now be easily created to suit the needs of various departments of the Saint John Port Authority. Vessel tracking and cargo manifest reporting has been designed to fit the port's specific needs and the leasing/property management component of the system has been significantly improved. In partnering with Nicom, the SJPA has brightened its technological landscape by ensuring it will receive excellent service and support that will not only meet but exceed expectations in the years ahead.

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