Putting people at the heart of crewing: Richard Newnham on technology and human-centred maritime operations

In an era defined by digital transformation, it’s easy for the human element to get lost in the noise of data, dashboards, and automation. But for Richard Newnham, Chief Experience Officer at 90POE, the mission is clear: technology should serve people - not the other way around.

Drawing on his unique experience both at sea and ashore, Richard has seen first-hand the challenges of modern crewing. Today, he’s helping reshape how maritime teams work, through solutions that make operations smarter, more connected, and ultimately more human.

Smart focus, not constant noise

At the heart of 90POE’s approach is the management by exception principle - a philosophy of “smart focus”.

“In a world overflowing with data,” Richard explains, “we believe in showing you only what truly matters, so you can stay proactive, not reactive.”

This principle powers onRADAR, 90POE’s proprietary system that continuously monitors fleet and crew data behind the scenes. Instead of forcing teams to sift through endless information, the platform automatically flags only what needs attention.

“If a port changes, for example,” Richard says, “onRADAR instantly checks whether a crew change is affected and alerts the team - ensuring smooth, proactive action.”

The result? Less noise, more clarity, and the freedom for crewing professionals to focus on people, not processes.

Beyond spreadsheets and email chains

For many maritime organisations, crew management still feels like a constant battle with spreadsheets, email threads, and fragmented systems. 90POE’s OpenOcean STUDIO crew module is changing that.

“Our platform creates one connected ecosystem for all crewing activities,” Richard explains. “From recruitment to planning, travel, payroll, and performance, everything happens in one uniform system, creating a single source of truth.”

This connected approach eliminates duplication, reduces manual admin, and ensures that everyone, whether on board or on shore, works from the same real-time data. With automated workflows, compliance checks, and integrated communication tools, the platform replaces complexity with cohesion.

“Because at the heart of every maritime operation,” Richard reminds us, “isn’t a spreadsheet - it’s a person.”

Empowering the seafarer

If there’s one message that defines Richard’s vision, it’s that seafarers must come first.

“They are the cornerstone of every successful operation,” he says. “Without them, it’s simple - nothing moves.”

Yet too often, crew members find themselves buried in admin or disconnected from the processes that impact their lives. OpenOcean crew changes that by putting seafarers at the centre - giving them transparency, control, and confidence.

By providing tools that give seafarers access to real-time data, documentation, and communication, the platform helps to build trust and engagement. Both vital ingredients for well-being and operational excellence.

“Ultimately, happy, informed, and empowered seafarers drive success,” says Richard. “That’s why every decision we make starts with them.”

The Seafarer App: connection that counts

Taking that commitment one step further, 90POE developed the Seafarer App, designed to strengthen engagement and communication between ship and shore.

“When we launched the app,” Richard shares, “our mission was simple - to put the seafarer back at the heart of crewing.”

Through the app, crew members can manage their personal details, documents, training, and availability directly from their mobile phones. They gain instant visibility into assignments, travel plans, vessel contacts, and more - all supported by real-time updates and automated compliance reminders.

For crewing teams, the impact is equally powerful: fewer emails, fewer manual updates, and faster, more confident decisions.

The result? A smoother flow of information, stronger relationships, and a more connected fleet.

“By combining digital efficiency with a people-first philosophy,” Richard concludes, “we’re proving that technology, when applied with empathy, truly enhances the human experience at sea.”

Turning data into decisions, and connection into care

“OpenOcean crew transforms the way maritime teams work - turning data into decisions and connection into care through fully optimised, human-centred crewing.”

For Richard and the 90POE team, it’s not just about smart systems or seamless workflows. It’s about creating a world where every seafarer feels connected, valued, and empowered - and where technology amplifies the best of what makes maritime operations human.

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