Whether you run a small shipyard or own a multisite shipyard management operation you're always looking for ways to make your operation more effective. From the individual details involved with the management of shipbuilding projects to finding the right shipyard management this guide will give you pointers and direct you to websites that can help your business.

The world of shipwrights and shipbuilding management leaves little room for error: mistakes made while building and repairing large ships cost enormous amounts money. Efficiency, as in most industries, can boost your bottom line and make everyone's life easier. When you're trying to get the most from your shipbuilding manager, international shipbuilding managing company or your shipyard manager, ask yourself these three questions.

1. What tools can help you run your own ship management company?

2. How can you find a qualified shipyard manager (or shipbuilding manager)?

3. Should you consider shipbuilding management companies?

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Increase the efficiency of your shipyard management

If you run your own shipyard (as opposed to employing any one of a number of shipyard management companies), then the best thing you can do is periodically review the way your company runs things. When it comes to the management of shipbuilding or shipyard management it's easy to get overwhelmed with the details. Project management software can help, as can the outside opinion of a consultant.

I recommend: Safran North America sells project management software tailored to shipyard management. Contact the company for the ideal application software that fits your business requirements. If you want a consultant to look at your project management practices or possibly set up a project management system, then Crowley Maritime offers those services.

Trust your operation to a qualified shipyard manager

If you have a qualified shipyard manager you can trust with your operation, then great. If not, then you have two choices: hire one or bring someone within your company up to speed.

I recommend: Check an employment service like MaritimeJobs.com that has boat-industry specific employment postings. Additionally, you can post jobs and review resumes for a small fee. The Fisher Maritime Consulting Group has training programs but you can also set up an in-house training program for you and your staff. Either print a registration form or contact the company for pricing and available dates for in-house training.

Consider shipyard management companies or shipbuilding management companies

Shipyard and shipbuilding management companies abound and, in some cases, can reduce your overhead, increase your yard's productivity, or both. These companies handle endeavors from transport ship management to specific shipbuilding management solutions.

I recommend: Maritime Management Consulting has an elaborate breakdown of its experience, services, and a library of articles about the way it handles different aspects of shipyard management. Contact a company, like PMCC, that has all their services clearly outlined on its website; this will save you time and frustration.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you decide to hire a management company, don't rush into anything. Talk to at least three companies before you hire anyone to oversee commercial ship management.