Modern Shipbuilding Demands the Right ERP and the Right Partner

Author: Barry Logan, Programme Director, Cooper Software

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 

1. Smarter Shipyards and Connected Operations
   Shipyards are adopting new technologies like IoT, digital twins and cloud-based design tools to improve visibility, safety and performance. But to make it work, you need more than technology. You need a system that connects engineering, procurement, project management, logistics and maintenance in one place. This is where a fully integrated ERP platform becomes essential.
2. Bringing Projects and Assets Together
   Many shipbuilders still run separate tools for projects, production and post-delivery support. This creates gaps and duplication. IFS Cloud brings these elements together, allowing shipyards to manage a vessel throughout its lifecycle with consistent data and full cost and process control.
3. Modular, Flexible ERP
   Modern shipbuilding demands flexibility. With a modular architecture, built-in AI, automation and analytics, the system can scale and evolve alongside your needs. Whether you're tracking project costs, managing supply chain risk or forecasting maintenance, it adapts to the way your operations run.
4. Regulations and Sustainability
   New emissions standards and environmental regulations are changing how ships are designed and operated. The platform supports traceability, sustainability reporting and regulatory compliance from project start through to decommissioning, helping businesses stay ahead of tightening rules.

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: 

• A single system to manage projects, materials, assets and maintenance 

• A connected platform that enables the digital shipyard and delivers a complete digital thread from design, through production to in-service support 

• Sustainability and compliance features built in 

• Flexibility to scale with your operations 

• A team that knows shipbuilding and how to make ERP deliver real value with the expertise to seamlessly integrate IFS Cloud with the tools already in use across your shipyard, including Primavera, MS Project, CAD systems, and  estimating systems 

• Proven capability in connecting IFS Cloud with shipyard manufacturing systems including panel line software 

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.