Today, software developer Helm Operations announced that it has signed Pacific Pilotage Authority (PPA) Canada to its Helm CONNECT Preventive Maintenance software. PPA operates five pilot boats and provides complete pilotage services for all ports on Canada’s west coast including Vancouver and those within the Fraser River.
Assistant Director, marine operations Paulo Ekkebus says; “The reason Helm CONNECT was selected as the software for planned maintenance was the ease of use for the crews and yet fully able to meet the requirements of the ISM Code."
Ekkebus continues, touching on a core element of Helm software’s purpose. “The philosophy behind the software, where user interface and design have been made a top priority, will reduce the complexity of implementation.” More specifically Ekkebus says; "The ability to integrate the functionality of Helm CONNECT into the everyday operation of a pilot launch was heavily weighted in the decision process."
Ron deBruyne, CEO and Founder of Helm Operations is proud to have Helm CONNECT serve PPA and says. “We are thrilled to welcome PPA to our team, that’s what it feels like to us here at Helm, we’re a team.” The usability of Helm CONNECT is something deBruyne is particularly proud of saying; “…we work hard at making our software easy, it’s so rewarding to have that recognized – it means what we’re doing is working!”
Helm CONNECT is designed to be intuitive in every way. Helm works closely with workboat personnel when building the product through direct consultation with real life users, like port engineers, crew and shore-based personnel. “The result is intuitive maintenance software that’s real easy to use,” said deBruyne.
deBruyne expects lots of interest in Helm CONNECT because workboat companies are searching for systems that help proactively record maintenance while reducing the complexity associated with reporting. “We keep hearing that they want something that’s easy to use to manage maintenance and close the loop on compliance. That’s what Helm CONNECT is all about.”