ESTEVE

success by netgroup

Custom software developed to digitize workflows and improve cargo management, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of Ro-Ro operations at Paldiski South Port.

Three Ro-Ro Lines Integrated

Tailor-Made Solution

ESTEVE operates at Paldiski South Port, the largest Ro-Ro port in Estonia, where fast and accurate cargo handling is crucial. Ships are often loaded and unloaded within hours, while road cargo moves in parallel. These processes require multi-step checks to prevent errors, and customs-controlled cargo is released only after approval. Previously, paper-based communication caused delays and slowed workflows.

Before partnering with Net Group, many of ESTEVE’s workflows were manual and paper-based, which delayed communication and made planning more complex. The goal was to digitize and improve these processes.

Since off-the-shelf software solutions didn’t meet ESTEVE’s needs, we developed a custom software solution from scratch, fully tailored to their operations. The system was designed to cover cargo intake, storage, dispatch, task management, and billing.

The software standardized data handling, improved workflows, and enabled real-time information exchange. Its intuitive design ensured it was user-friendly, even for employees without prior experience with digital tools. With advanced functionalities customized for the port’s complex workflows, the solution made cargo handling more accurate and efficient.

Purpose of the Project

The purpose of the software development was to improve data collection, lifecycle management, and the flow of information, directly impacting workflows related to servicing Ro-Ro cargo ships. The goal was to streamline operations and minimize errors caused by manual processes.

A key challenge was designing a solution for employees who were used to paper-based workflows and had little experience with digital tools. The system needed to be intuitive to ensure a smooth transition to a digital workflow.

The project initially focused on a simpler application with limited functionalities. As collaboration progressed, the scope expanded, incorporating additional features and adjustments to address ESTEVE’s specific operational needs.

At Paldiski South Port, diverse cargo, including railcar loading, requires reconfiguring and securing cargo units. These processes demand detailed data handling, making data standardization and effective management critical project objectives.

The resulting solution allowed ESTEVE to manage workflows more efficiently, with flexibility to adapt to the complexities of port operations.

Digitizing Ro-Ro Service Workflows

We digitized and simplified key workflows for servicing Ro-Ro shipping lines at Paldiski South Port. Previously, manual and paper-based processes caused delays and inefficiencies. The new system automated critical operations and integrated with shipping lines and later with the Port of Tallinn, ensuring smoother workflows.

Cargo manifests sent by shipping lines are automatically processed by the system, eliminating the need for manual data entry. The software plans workflows, registers services, and sends data back to shipping lines when needed. Integration with the Port of Tallinn ensures accurate fee calculations once ship handling is complete.

Key activities such as work order planning, task execution, equipment allocation, and invoicing are consolidated into a single application. Additionally, all billing-related information is automatically transferred from Warese to the accounting system, simplifying financial processes.

The system processes incoming data, registers services for cargo, and plans work orders. Workflows are then executed, and all necessary information is forwarded to the accounting system, allowing invoices to be sent to clients efficiently.

Streamlined Operations for Ro-Ro Services

The software digitized critical workflows at Paldiski South Port, automating processes such as cargo planning, work order management, and invoicing. Integration with shipping lines and the Port of Tallinn enabled real-time data handling and streamlined operations.

Project Stats

2000
App downloads
13,421
Total users as of June 2023

Technologies Used

TypeScript
React
Microsoft SQL Server
.NET 6
Docker
Discover
Discover
Define
Define
Ideate
Ideate
Develop
Develop
Testing
Testing

Together, we achieved these goals

  • Workflow mapping and prototyping ensured the solution aligned with ESTEVE’s operations, focusing on cargo intake, planning, and execution.
  • The software was deployed incrementally, starting with one shipping line and gradually expanding to all three Ro-Ro lines.
  • Data handling was standardized, workflows streamlined, and ongoing support ensured efficient operations and user satisfaction.

Keywords from the project

  1. The system automated key processes, integrating real-time updates from shipping lines and ensuring seamless data management.
  2. Data standardization minimized errors and improved the handling of detailed cargo information and workflows.
  3. User-friendly features supported efficient task management, from work orders to resource allocation and invoicing.

Client Feedback

At first, collaboration was challenging due to the wealth of information and nuances to consider. Additionally, our terminology and the development terminology were quite different. It became simpler and more effective once we began using and testing the software. It took time for employees to adapt to the new software, but they are now satisfied with several developments that initially seemed impossible to implement in a user-friendly manner. We’ve learned to collaborate effectively, and it’s been a very exciting journey.
ESTEVE
Client

ESTEVE

about the client

ESTEVE AS is part of the BMLG group and has been providing port operator services at Paldiski South Port since 1997 and at Tallinn Old City Harbour since 2006, both part of AS Tallinna Sadam.

The company offers its clients a wide range of high-quality services 24/7. In collaboration with other companies in the group, ESTEVE provides comprehensive logistics solutions.