We experimented with some ideas with the audience at APIDAYS Helsinki & North 2024.

For this key idea we used a more sophisticated version of our idea too, together with the APIOps Cycles method.

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BalticClean: Navigate Green, Sail Clean

Introducing BalticClean, a smart notification system for cargo ships entering the Baltic Sea. Utilizing geofencing and AIS, it alerts captains to free septic tank disposal at nearby ports, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Simplify waste management, support sustainability, and earn rewards for eco-friendly practices with BalticClean.

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Step 1: User Persona Description

Name: Captain Sven Johansson

Age: 45

Occupation: Cargo Ship Captain

Background: Sven has been navigating the seas for over 20 years, with a significant portion of his career spent in the Baltic Sea. He is responsible for ensuring timely delivery of cargo and maintaining compliance with environmental regulations.

Needs: Sven needs an efficient way to manage the ship's waste disposal to comply with environmental regulations. He is keen on contributing to sustainable practices but is often pressed for time and unaware of specific local regulations or facilities.

Interest in Environmental Conditions: Sven is concerned about the impact of maritime activities on the Baltic Sea's fragile ecosystem. He wants to minimize his ship's environmental footprint but needs more accessible and actionable information.

Step 2: User Journey

Objective: Ensure Captain Sven can easily identify and utilize free septic tank emptying facilities at Baltic Sea ports, promoting sustainable practices and compliance with regulations.

1. Awareness:
   • Touchpoint: Ship's onboard navigation and management system.
   • Action: Sven receives a notification about entering the Baltic Sea, highlighting environmental guidelines and available facilities for septic tank disposal.
2. Consideration:
   • Touchpoint: Mobile app integrated with the ship's system.
   • Action: Sven opens the app to explore port facilities and reads about the free septic tank emptying services available at various Baltic ports.
3. Decision:
   • Touchpoint: Real-time port services dashboard within the app.
   • Action: The app suggests optimal ports for waste disposal based on Sven's route and schedule, with estimated wait times and booking options.
4. Action:
   • Touchpoint: IoT-enabled port facilities.
   • Action: Sven schedules a septic tank emptying service at the selected port. Upon arrival, the IoT system guides the ship to the designated area and automates the disposal process.
5. Follow-up:
   • Touchpoint: App feedback and reporting feature.
   • Action: Sven receives confirmation of the completed service and a report on the environmental benefits of his actions. He can also provide feedback on the port services.
6. Unexpected Delight:
   • Touchpoint: Loyalty program within the app.
   • Action: Sven earns sustainability points for using the septic tank facilities, redeemable for discounts on port fees or other services.

Step 3: Analysis as a Software Developer

Pains:

• Difficulty in finding reliable and up-to-date APIs for real-time port services and facilities.
• Integrating IoT solutions with existing ship management systems.
• Ensuring data security and compliance with maritime regulations.
• Handling diverse data formats and standards used by different ports.

Gains:

• Access to a comprehensive API ecosystem that streamlines port service information.
• Enhanced user experience for ship captains through real-time data and automation.
• Contribution to environmental sustainability and regulatory compliance.
• Increased efficiency in ship operations, reducing downtime and operational costs.

Step 4: Solution Provider Perspective

Existing APIs:

• MarineTraffic API: Provides real-time ship tracking and port information.
• Baltic Sea Ports Network API: Aggregates data from various ports in the Baltic region, including available services.
• Weather and Sea Conditions API: Offers up-to-date environmental data crucial for navigation and planning.

New API Candidates:

• Septic Tank Disposal Scheduling API: Allows ships to schedule waste disposal services at ports, integrating with port management systems.
• IoT Port Facility API: Interfaces with IoT-enabled facilities at ports for automated guidance and service execution.
• Sustainability Points API: Manages the loyalty program, tracking points earned and redeemable benefits.

Step 5: Business Model Canvas

Value Proposition:

• For Ship Captains: Streamlined access to free septic tank disposal services, real-time port information, and a loyalty program promoting sustainable practices.
• For Ports: Increased usage of waste disposal facilities, enhanced reputation for environmental stewardship, and improved data-driven operations.

Customer Segments:

• Cargo ship captains and operators.
• Port authorities and management.

Channels:

• Mobile app integrated with ship management systems.
• Port service dashboards and IoT interfaces.

Customer Relationships:

• Support and assistance through the app.
• Feedback mechanisms and loyalty program engagement.

Revenue Streams:

• Subscription fees for premium app features.
• Port fees for advanced scheduling and IoT services.
• Partnerships with ports for sustainability initiatives.

Key Resources:

• Access to real-time maritime data APIs.
• IoT infrastructure at ports.
• App development and maintenance team.

Key Activities:

• Development and integration of APIs.
• Collaboration with port authorities and IoT providers.
• Continuous improvement of app features based on user feedback.

Key Partners:

• Maritime data providers (e.g., MarineTraffic).
• Port authorities in the Baltic Sea region.
• IoT technology vendors.

Cost Structure:

• Development and maintenance of the app and APIs.
• IoT infrastructure costs.
• Marketing and customer support expenses.

This comprehensive solution leverages cutting-edge technology to enhance sustainability in the Baltic Sea, providing tangible benefits for both ship captains and port authorities.

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