By Renuka Ranaweera, Principal Asset Management Consultant, Brightly
Modern asset management demands a strategic approach – and nowhere is that more evident than in the global supply connectors that are ports.
With an extensive coastline spanning more than 25,000 kilometres, Australia relies heavily on its ports as critical supply arteries for economic prosperity and social wellbeing. They are pivotal in shaping the nation’s economic landscape, driving growth and maintaining quality of life for all Australians.
Recent pandemic and global conflict related impacts have highlighted the critical importance of maintaining open and reliable supply chains, of which ports in Australia play a substantial and vital role. Beyond these global risks and impacts, it is important to not lose sight of the local operational risks embodied in sustainably managing port assets.
The range, complexity and interdependence of physical assets required to provide and maintain reliable port operations is extensive. These assets are also subject to dynamic operating and exposure environments in both marine and terrestrial contexts.
The need for a strategic approach
With many Australian ports being 30 to 70 years old, many assets will need replacement in the near future. Tightening economic conditions, environmental concerns and emphasis on minimising infrastructure and operational risks demands taking a long-term approach to managing port assets that extends the lives of existing assets without compromising the services delivered.
For this, it is vital that reliable asset condition and performance data be collected, stored, managed and analysed to support evidence-based investment decisions. By optimising operational, maintenance and capital expenditure, costly breakdowns, operational downtime and supply chain delays can be minimised.
Adopting a strategic asset management approach is how sustainable, reliable and cost-effective port operations can be provided both now and into the future.
See the future now
The ability to make optimised investment decisions in operational, maintenance and capital delivery activities is greatly enhanced when whole-of-life scenario analyses are undertaken. Combining asset data, life cycle behaviour, service strategies and investment options in powerful predictive analytical tools allows port operators to compare and contrast alternative future outcomes. Informed, evidence-based decisions can be made now that ensure ongoing future needs are sustainably met.
Achieving greater efficiencies
To achieve greater efficiencies and minimise risks in port asset management, port authorities must adopt appropriate processes and tools throughout the asset lifecycle. Establishing a unified asset register as a single source of truth ensures the accessibility, accuracy, and currency of asset data. Technologies such as drones or remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) can significantly enhance efficiency and reduce risk during data collection, particularly for underwater asset inspections, minimising downtime and hazards to divers.
Standardising data collection methodologies using the Wharf Structures Condition Assessment Manual (WSCAM) developed by Ports Australia ensures consistency across the industry. Predictive analytics tools with ‘what-if’ scenario capabilities enable decision-makers to assess the long-term impact of current decisions on the asset portfolio. Visualisation tools such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) or Business Intelligence (BI) platforms further enhance stakeholder collaboration.
A recent pilot trial at Geelong Port successfully employed ROVs for underwater asset data capture, lifecycle analysis and GIS for data insights and stakeholder collaboration. By implementing these strategic measures, port operators can ensure sustainable delivery of critical services at the lowest lifecycle cost and minimised risk, supporting thriving communities and safeguarding Australia’s economic and social future.
For more information, visit www.brightlysoftware.com/ports
Image: Cavan-Images/shutterstock.com
