ECDISIQ: Standardising ECDIS Competence Across Global Fleets

Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) has become a critical component of modern navigation. While most officers today are familiar with ECDIS, safe navigation depends not just on general knowledge but on system-specific competence.

Different ships are fitted with different ECDIS makes and models. Each system has its own interface, safety settings, alarm logic, and operational workflow. Without proper Type-Specific training, even experienced officers can face challenges that may lead to navigational errors.

ECDISIQ addresses this gap.

What is ECDISIQ

ECDISIQ is the dedicated ECDIS training brand of Solent Maritime Academy, focused on delivering Type-Specific ECDIS training across all major equipment manufacturers.

Built around the requirements of the STCW Convention and the ISM Code, ECDISIQ provides a structured and globally aligned approach to ECDIS competence.

The focus is simple: ensure officers are fully competent on the exact system installed onboard their vessel.

Why Type-Specific ECDIS Training Matters

Generic ECDIS knowledge is not sufficient for safe navigation.

Key challenges without Type-Specific training include:

  • Incorrect safety settings and alarm configuration
  • Misinterpretation of system alerts
  • Inefficient route planning and monitoring
  • Over-reliance on automation without understanding limitations

Regulatory frameworks clearly require that officers must be trained on the specific equipment fitted onboard, not just ECDIS in general.

ECDISIQ ensures this requirement is met in a structured and practical manner.

Coverage Across Major ECDIS Manufacturers

ECDISIQ provides training across all widely used ECDIS systems in the global fleet, including:

  • Wärtsilä (Transas ECDIS)
  • Kongsberg Maritime
  • Furuno
  • JRC (Japan Radio Company)
  • Tokyo Keiki
  • Raytheon Anschütz
  • Navico (Simrad / B&G systems)

This wide coverage allows shipping companies to standardise training across mixed fleets and ensures officers can transition between vessels with confidence.

A Structured Approach to ECDIS Competence

ECDISIQ is designed to move beyond basic familiarisation and focus on practical competence.

Training is structured to cover:

  • System-specific interface and functions
  • Route planning and monitoring procedures
  • Safety settings and alarm management
  • Limitations and potential risks of the system
  • Best practices aligned with real onboard operations

The goal is not just to teach the system, but to ensure it is used correctly under real operational conditions.

Benefits for Seafarers

  • Gain confidence on specific ECDIS systems onboard
  • Improve situational awareness and decision-making
  • Reduce dependency on trial-and-error learning
  • Meet regulatory and company requirements with ease

Benefits for Shipping Companies

  • Standardised ECDIS competence across fleets
  • Reduced navigational risk and human error
  • Stronger compliance with audit and inspection requirements
  • Improved bridge team performance and safety culture

Integration with Modern Learning Systems

ECDISIQ training is delivered through advanced digital platforms, including virtual classes and structured e-learning via in-house LMS systems.

This enables:

  • Flexible learning for global crews
  • Consistent training delivery across locations
  • Progress tracking and certification management
  • Scalable implementation for large fleets

Conclusion

As navigation systems continue to evolve, the need for system-specific competence becomes even more critical.

ECDISIQ provides a reliable, structured, and globally aligned solution to ensure that officers are not just trained, but truly competent on the ECDIS systems they operate.

By standardising training across major manufacturers, ECDISIQ supports safer navigation, stronger bridge teams, and more efficient maritime operations worldwide.