Austal USA Enhances Digital Transformation Through SSI ShipbuildingPLM

Austal USA’s Drive for Innovation in Shipbuilding

Austal USA is making waves in the shipbuilding industry by embracing a digital transformation that positions the company at the forefront of innovation and operational excellence. By introducing ShipbuildingPLM, a shipbuilding-specific digital platform, Austal USA is setting remarkable benchmarks for government shipbuilding programs. This strategic move aims to accelerate production, reduce risks, and establish a unified source of truth across complex programs, changing the shipbuilding landscape in the process.

Accelerating Production with Advanced Technology

The integration of ShipbuildingPLM into Austal USA’s operations represents a pivotal shift in how the company handles its production processes. The platform is designed to provide a streamlined workflow by leveraging data-driven decision-making. With this system in place, Austal USA can analyze, manage, and optimize workflows more effectively, resulting in quicker production turnaround times.

By offering a comprehensive view of each program, ShipbuildingPLM ensures that Austal USA’s production systems are not only faster but also smarter. This new approach allows for greater agility in responding to changing demands, ultimately contributing to timelier project deliveries.

Creating a Unified Approach to Shipbuilding

A notable feature of ShipbuildingPLM is its ability to function as a digital thread across a diverse array of vessels and programs. Whether it’s constructing vessels for the US Navy and the US Coast Guard or delving into complex steel ships and submarine modules for the Virginia- and Columbia-class submarines, the platform creates a cohesive framework.

The ability to have a configuration-managed view of each project enhances transparency and accountability. Such a unified approach reduces the complexity typically associated with managing multiple programs, thereby streamlining operations and improving consistency across all levels of production.

Establishing Industry Standards through Partnerships

The long-standing partnership between Austal USA and SSI (ShipConstructor) has been a cornerstone of the company’s success in delivering high-quality vessels. Since 2005, Austal USA has successfully delivered 34 vessels to the US Navy using SSI ShipConstructor, showcasing the potential of this collaboration.

Denis Morais, CEO of SSI, highlights Austal USA’s willingness to push boundaries and take calculated risks by adopting ShipbuildingPLM. This partnership exemplifies a deliberate approach to tackling challenges that are often overlooked in the industry. Both parties share a vision focused on continuous improvements, which adds significant value while minimizing risks associated with shipbuilding.

Navigating the Future of Digital Shipbuilding

The shipbuilding industry is in a constant state of evolution, and Austal USA acknowledges that the scalability and strength of its digital systems are paramount as it moves forward. Michelle Kruger, President of Austal USA, emphasizes that ShipbuildingPLM plays a crucial role in fostering a connected, controlled, and scalable data management system.

This connection directly impacts schedule confidence and program performance, further solidifying Austal USA’s reputation as a reliable partner to the US government. As the demands of shipbuilding evolve, the ability to incorporate advanced technology will be essential for maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency.

Commitment to Continuous Improvement

Austal USA operates under a culture of speed, innovation, and continuous improvement, which is central to its relationship with the US government as a trusted shipbuilder. The integration of ShipbuildingPLM signifies not just a technological upgrade, but a commitment to operational excellence in every project undertaken.

The ongoing collaboration with SSI ensures that Austal USA stays ahead of the curve, benefiting from SSI’s platform enhancements and dedicated support teams. This partnership has long been a driving force behind Austal USA’s ability to innovate and maintain high-quality standards in a competitive industry.

A Legacy of Innovation

With over 20 years of collaboration between Austal USA and SSI, this relationship reflects a shared commitment to embracing innovation and operational excellence. Both entities are pioneers in the shipbuilding sector, championing the future of digital shipbuilding while striving for continuous improvement in every aspect of their operations.

In a world where speed, accuracy, and efficiency are paramount, Austal USA’s strategic adoption of ShipbuildingPLM stands as a testament to its dedication to reimagining what is possible in the realms of shipbuilding and naval defense.