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Jan 29, 2024

8 min

Choosingbetween SaaS,In-Housedevelopment, orcustomsolutions inthe maritimesector

Rogier Stroband

Rogier Stroband

In the maritime industry's digital evolution, companies face a pivotal decision: adopt standard SaaS software, develop in-house, or opt for custom solutions. This blog explores the best approach amid challenges like market fragmentation, lack of standards, costs, and skilled personnel shortages. As the maritime sector embraces sustainability and faces stricter regulations, opportunities arise.

Digitalization in the maritime sector

The global maritime digitalization market is steadily growing, projected to achieve an annual growth rate of 9.5% from 2023 to 2030. Valued at $158.1 billion in 2022, it's anticipated to reach $298.42 billion by 2030 (Credence Research, Inc.). Efficiency and cost savings drive this growth, allowing companies to automate processes and analyze data for improved collaboration, lower operational costs, and enhanced customer satisfaction.

Key Growth Drivers:


Focus on efficiency and cost savings


Importance of customer satisfaction


Emerging technologies like AI, Machine Learning, and advanced sensors


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Mike is writing down information on post-its

Standard SaaS purchase or custom development?

To address challenges and embark on digitalization, organizations must develop a digital solution that integrates various data types and connects all links in the chain. The choice lies between acquiring standard SaaS software or developing in-house. Standard SaaS benefits from short implementation times and lower upfront costs, but it may limit customization and create vendor lock-in.

Choosing in-house development necessitates substantial expertise, posing challenges for some maritime organizations. Alternatively, collaborating with a specialized external partner can ensure the creation of high-quality, user-friendly, and tailored software solutions.

Or opt for external development?

Collaborating with an external, experienced partner can bring expertise in developing tailored solutions for the maritime sector. This approach leverages daily insights into crafting data-driven, user-friendly software aligned with industry standards. Unlike SaaS, it grants ownership of intellectual property and data. Although custom development requires a larger initial investment, the tailored solution effectively addresses specific challenges, providing a significant return on investment.

Selecting a partner goes beyond developing a system or app; it involves guidance, collaboration, and continuous support aligned with business goals, always keeping the end-user in mind.

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How Label A assists

Label A, a digital agency, aids the maritime sector in developing smart, innovative digital solutions for enhanced efficiency and future readiness. By streamlining information flows and centralizing reporting, Label A's solutions facilitate efficient operations, cost savings, and satisfied personnel and customers.

Label A has successfully implemented innovative digital solutions for maritime contractor Van Oord. For more details, explore the Van Oord case or read our blog on accelerating digital transformation at Van Oord.

Do you want to know more?

Do you want to know how Label A can assist you in maximizing the numerous possibilities of digital transformation and information provision? We would love to get to know you! For more information about our services and solutions, please contact Rogier Stroband.

Rogier Stroband

Rogier Stroband

Commercial Director

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