Preventing Unruly Technologies in Maritime Navigation: A Systems Approach

Paper in proceeding, 2020

The rapid development of artificial intelligence, big data, and automation have the potential to transform the maritime industry. While change is inevitable, automated solutions do not guarantee navigational safety, efficiency or improved seaway traffic management. This paper describes lessons learned throughout the Sea Traffic Management (STM) Validation project. The STM project tested low-level automation functions intended to enhance navigational safety and efficiency. The results indicate that although the additional information was useful, there may be a disruption in current working practices, and potential gaps in the existing regulatory framework, and training and skill development of future mariners. The aim of this paper is to argue for a systems approach to better understand and prevent technologies from becoming “unruly” in the maritime context. This approach will consider how the technologies impact various system elements to support a more safe and sustainable shipping industry.