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Shortsea- XML is a two year project funded by the EU Marco Polo programme. Work began in September 2006 and is scheduled to finish in September 2008.
The aim of the project is to establish a network of shippers, carriers, ports, IT providers and other interested parties to create a series of standardised messages based on XML technology. The processes of scheduling, booking, operations and invoicing form the core of the message suite which, when implemented will:
- simplify and streamline administrative processes
- make it easier for all parties to meet the reporting requirements of the authorities
- reduce administrative errors
- improve transparency
- improve customer service
- save man hours and free-up staff
- improve vessel and equipment utilisation.
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All new standards will be approved by United Nations standards organisation UN/CEFACT and are designed to operate in tandem with existing technologies such as EDIFACT.
XML technology is cheaper and more flexible that other more established platforms and is generally present in most software applications. Its wide availability and ease of use will allow the wider shortsea community to communicate with each other – particularly those for whom EDI-type applications are beyond reach.
Shortsea XML is not intended to replace the more heavy weight applications (such as EDIFACT) which are already in use by larger organisations.
Organisations are encouraged to expand their library and use XML alongside their existing applications. That way we hope to build the widest possible network of electronic data exchange within the shortsea community. |