XVELA launch to solve port productivity limitations

With more pressure to move ships and cargo faster than ever before, Navis says productivity in ports has been affected by isolated systems, inefficient data exchanges, limited visibility and a lack of communication between carriers and terminal operators.

“Leadership in ocean shipping is challenging when a complex network of companies and individuals are involved in the movement of containers. Without connected systems and shared visibility, wasteful time buffers are built in to vessel stowage planning to compensate for a lack of insight and control,” said Chris Mazza, vice president and chief customer officer, XVELA. “There’s a better way to connect and share information that will ultimately move the needle for all in the industry—through cloud technology.”

Building from its roots in Navis PowerStow, XVELA aims to break down traditional communications barriers between carriers and container terminals through a new cloud-based collaboration platform—consisting of proprietary applications, tools and analytics—enabling users to share data in real-time to gain critical efficiencies, reduce waste and increase productivity and revenue.

“Recognising this very real market demand, we knew that PowerStow was part of the solution, but was only scratching the surface of its potential in its current form,” added Manuel Perez, product director, XVELA. “Taking this product to the next level for carriers and terminal operators requires an all-star team of experts solely dedicated to developing, tuning and innovating the technology with future needs in mind. That’s exactly what we’ve done with XVELA, and the response from carriers to date could not be more promising.”

XVELA’s products will be delivered in two phases. First, the company will enhance and innovate PowerStow based on existing user needs. Then, the company will roll out its cloud-based platform throughout 2015, and will manage migrations for existing PowerStow customers, as well as assist in implementations for new users.

XVELA is led by several shipping industry veterans including Chris Mazza, a former executive at International Asset Systems, Manuel Perez, former IT solutions developer for Maersk Line and Robert Inchausti, CTO of XVELA. While XVELA will operate as an independent entity, Navis President and CEO Bill Walsh will provide executive oversight and advisement for the company.