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BTCom 
 
Introduction

BTcom is a sophisticated computer system designed to provide highly effective management of sea transport systems.

The goal of the system was to create a computerized method of processing the data for cargo, vessels and cargo transfer documents. Sets of documents and cargo transfer data are formalized and placed into a central database on main computer (Server). Other computers taking part in system (terminals) are able to access data on Server through the LAN or Internet.

The currently version of this transport logistics system "BTcom" covers the following main areas:

  • Ro-Ro cargo transport lines management
  • Container cargo transport lines management
  • Passenger lines management

    The following is a list of main objects involved in BTcom system:

  • Vessels
  • Warehouses
  • Port Authorities
  • Ro-Ro cargo units
  • Container units
  • Passengers
  • Passengers' cargo units
  • All related documents

    BTcom provides support for the following operations:

  • Booking
  • Ticketing
  • Check-in
  • Vessels schedule management
  • Warehouse operations support
  • Invoice and tariffs processing
  • Agent duties
  • Customs cooperation
  • Data synchronization with the remote partners

    BTcom system consists of several applications that perform the following manager-level tasks:

  • Clients management
  • Complete transport line supervision
  • Warehouse management
  • Accounting and financial services (invoicing, reports and statistic)

    BTcom speeds the following operations:

  • Fast and precision "Booking", "Ticketing" and "Check In"
  • Preparing all necessary documentation related to the cargo transferring process
  • Invoicing and statistics service
  • Support of warehouse and custom's operations.

    The BTcom system was based on Client-Server architecture and physically divided on a Server (computer holding DataBase and applications) and Workstations (computers preparing data for Server). Following a set of authorization procedures, Workstations can get access to data on Server, receive approved information about vessels routs, schedule and remaining capacity. They send Booking/Check In notes, perform Warehouse, Invoicing and Agent operations, providing Server with up to date information about customers, vessels and cargo situation.

    Server collects and analyses information delivered from Workstations and performs data integration. It allows performing management of lines, routs, vessels and cargo, to prepare invoices and statistic reports, providing Line's management with actual information.

    June of 1998 "BTcom" computer system was applied in Lubeck and Kiel ports for informational support of the TransRussiaExpress Line. Elements of the system are used by the St. Petersburg Customs. Their realization will pave the way to standardization and acceleration of the cargo clearance procedures.

    The "BTcom" computer system has been highly appreciated by Finnish and German partners of TransRussiaExpress Line.

    Currently, the system also controls the TeamLines container line that connects St. Petersburg, Hamburg and Bremerhaven.

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         "BTcom Ro-Ro" general description

    "BTcom Ro-Ro" system consists of several programs. Each program covers specific area within a general Ro-Ro cargo processing scheme. Data prepared by one application will be processed by another application providing correct data flow. The applications share data through the common database.

    Cargo Booking / Cargo CheckIn

    The program is intended to computerize activity of terminal staff by inputting information about the cargo to be transported. The database contains exhausted information about routes, freight tickets, cargo and accompanying persons and documents.

    Temporary Storage Warehouse (TSW)

    The Program allows the user to input documents accompanying the cargoes moving to / from the TSW into database, as well as to retrieve information about the cargoes which are being stored in the TSW. This also links to the Port authorities and is supported for extended use (for example to Customs clearance system).

    Customs Inspector

    This application allows Storage and Customs personnel to work together. Customs inspectors are allowed to get all necessary cargo information concerning to cargoes on store, manage receiving/delivery process. All necessary reporting functions are provided.

    Port Agency

    The program allows users to control and prepare the database of ships calls and other services rendered while in port.

    Programs for statistic information and reports processing

    Set of Financial applications

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         "BTcom Containers" general description


    "BTcom Containers" system consists of several computer programs. Each program covers specific area within a general cargo container processing scheme. Data prepared by one application will be processed by another application, providing the correct data flow. The applications share data through the common database.

    Cargo Booking / Cargo CheckIn

    The program computerized activity of the terminal staff by inputting information about the cargoes to be transported. The database contains exhausted information about routes, freight tickets, cargoes and accompanying persons and documents

    Temporary Storage Warehouse (TSW)

    The Program allows the user to input documents accompanying the cargoes moving to / from the TSW into database, as well as to retrieve information about the cargoes which are being stored in the TSW. This also links to the Port authorities and is supported for extended use (for example to Customs clearance system).

    Customs Inspector

    This application allows Storage and Customs personnel to work together. Customs inspectors are allowed to get all necessary cargo information concerning to cargoes on store, manage receiving/delivery process. All necessary reporting functions are provided.

    Port Agency

    The program allows users to control and prepare the database of ships calls and other services rendered while in port.

    Container Control

    The application helps controlling and scheduling containers' movements and operations. It also helps preparing of different reporting types for container owners on everyday basis.

    Terminal Plan

    This application provides users with real-time visual information concerning to Containers and Ro-Ro cargoes movements and placements on Terminal in order to optimize terminal performance.

    Programs for statistic information and report processing

    Set of Financial application

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         "BTcom Passengers" general description

    "BTcom Passengers" is a professional computer booking system which may be applied to any type of maritime activity (regular line service, ferries, seagoing and river transports etc.). The system complies with all international requirements. The cargo version of the system is being successfully used by St-Petersburg-Zassnits-Kiel regular ferry service also by the container line St. Petersburg-Hamburg for several years.

    The system automatically provides for easy access to the ship's configuration, cabin plans, tariffs, rotation, the number and contents of shore services available, the sales regulations and cancellations, reports and statistics.

    No specific equipment or programs are required to access and work with the system in the Booking-Agent office. Any company equipped with standard configuration computers and an access to the Internet, may instantly function as a competent Booking and sales agent.

    The computer booking system allows users to:

  • perform on-line bookings and sales of accommodations by an unlimited number of authorized booking-agents from anywhere in the world.
  • arrange an internet shop to make individual booking for the public at large
  • arrange passenger check-in and issue all relevant documentation with minimum time and personal
  • prepare all information covering arrival/departure of the vessel required by port authorities
  • summarize information on current sales and prospective bookings for the whole season and timely make the according adjustments in pricing policy
  • plan and control the running expenses of the line service
  • receive information on the current financial effectiveness of the line
  • minimize the expenses of the booking agents, thus making the system more attractive for a wider net of sales agents

    The System helps the Ship Owner to:

  • effectively utilize the vessel's freight and passenger capacity
  • increase the volume of sales by using wider net of sales agents
  • exclude mistakes connected with quota distribution, lack or delayed information and nonconformity between the agents
  • optimize financial relations with the agents
  • cut the expenses by eliminating staff, redundant communications and office paper work.

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