Leveraging geospatially enabled data to enhance port operations
At a glance
GHD Digital led the digitisation of TasPorts’ assets into a geographic information system (GIS) to enhance data visibility, asset management, maintenance processes and overall operational efficiency. These tools helped TasPorts gain a comprehensive view of activities across its multi-port networks.
The challenge
Data accuracy and accessibility are critical for port operators as they manage complex activities across dispersed assets. TasPorts is the state-owned operator of Tasmania’s port infrastructure, including 11 ports and one airport. The island state depends on ports as crucial hubs for trade to sustain the economy and its communities. Annually, TasPorts manages more than 2,600 vessel movements and approximately 15 million tonnes of freight through its ports.
A review of the organisation’s asset management approach identified the need for a cohesive and accessible, industry standard GIS solution.
Our response
GHD Digital streamlined TasPorts’ asset management process digitising their assets into GIS software, and in doing so, consolidating information into one accessible location.
Throughout the project, our location intelligence team was embedded full-time at TasPorts, enabling our specialist to gain corporate knowledge and a better understanding of use cases.
The project involved converting several CAD drawings into the GIS format. It was crucial to ensure data consistency and precision before converting them into the GIS files. This required georeferencing of the drawings (such as, through the process of aligning digital maps or aerial images with real-world geographic locations).
The converted features were then transferred into TasPorts’ chosen schema, Esri’s Maritime Ports Data Model (MP 2023). This model is designed to support data management for maritime ports by providing industry-specific template data models to simplify the ArcGIS system implementation.
TasPorts’ GIS assets were configured according to MP 2023 and were then published to ArcGIS Online (Esri's web-based mapping software). ArcGIS Online enabled users within the organisation to better visualise spatial data across port and vessel activities.
The impact
TasPorts’ new centralised platform enabled data access, operational, asset management and maintenance process efficiencies and enhanced visibility.
The GIS solution empowered TasPorts employees to gain an overview of their assets, condition and location within each port. Situational awareness improvements enhanced decision-making and proactive action and augmented the coordination of activities across port assets.
We were fundamental in improving the platform and providing administrative and governance consulting services including training for end-users.
We provided improvements to the governance of the GIS through enabling collaboration between TasPorts and their key contractor undertaking their asset inspections program and progressed maturity of data management through applying industry standard approaches. The work we did will help to maintain industry-standard practice in information management as the use of GIS continues to grow and add value to TasPorts’ strategic and operational outcomes.