Author: Barry Logan, Programme Director, Cooper Software
With a career rooted in shipbuilding, from Babcock to ERP transformation at Cooper Software, I’ve seen the industry shift in many ways. Shipbuilders today face increasing complexity, from technical challenges to operational pressures. To remain competitive, digital transformation is no longer a future consideration. It’s already happening.At Cooper Software, we help shipbuilders take control of this transformation using IFS Cloud. As an IFS Gold Partner, we provide the software, services and shipbuilding knowledge needed to make digital change deliver real outcomes. One of our newest customers is a good example of a global shipbuilder actively modernising its systems. You can read more in our recent press release.
Below are some of the key trends shaping not only how shipbuilders operate, but also how defence agencies, vessel owners and other maritime stakeholders manage increasingly complex operations. In each case, choosing the right partner is just as important as selecting the right platform.
Key Trends Reshaping Shipbuilding
Why Your ERP Partner Matters
Choosing a capable ERP platform is essential, but having the right partner to implement and support it makes the difference between success and frustration.
Industry Knowledge
At Cooper Software, we understand shipbuilding. We’ve worked with shipyards delivering complex vessels under tight schedules and strict oversight. We know how projects run, how change happens, and how to bring systems together without slowing operations.
A Proven Approach
We don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. Our team works with yours to configure the system around your workflows from design approval to project cost control. This ensures the software fits how your shipyard actually operates.
Planning for the Long Term
Digital transformation doesn’t end at go-live. With an evergreen update model and open integration, the solution evolves with your business. We work with you through each phase, helping you make progress without unnecessary disruption.
Change Management and Training
The technology only delivers value when people adopt it. With experience in both shipbuilding and enterprise IT, we support your teams through structured change. Our training and onboarding services make sure everyone has the knowledge and confidence to adopt the new tools.
What This Means for Shipbuilders
Working with Cooper Software gives you:
Final Thoughts
Shipbuilding is moving fast. Digital transformation is already shaping the future of the industry. Success depends on having the right ERP platform and a partner who understands your challenges. That’s what turns investment into long-term advantage.
About the Author
Barry Logan is Programme Director at Cooper Software. He spent 37 years with Babcock International, where he was part of the original team that selected and implemented IFS in 1999. Over the next two decades, Barry led the delivery of IFS and other integrated systems across the Babcock estate, eventually becoming Head of IFS, responsible for 11 global IFS instances. He also served as Babcock’s Business Solutions lead on the ACA Carrier build project, which delivered two aircraft carriers at Rosyth. Barry now brings his extensive experience in ERP, project controls and shipbuilding to Cooper Software customers worldwide.