Collaborative port allocation. Port allocation as shown is a process which involves a lot of different participants that does not always have mutual and corresponding objectives. There is an extensive use of different coordination channels and personnel in the allocation process. This method could lead to situations where there is a mismatch between resource allocation and actual requirements. There is also a danger for errors and omissions that could cause ripple effects throughout the supply chain. A collaborative port allocation system will change how information-exchange between the different participants works. The coordination will get more extensive, but more distributed and thus give Vestbase fewer decisions to handle. Gathering and displaying up-to-date information in one place could contribute to a more perspicuous decision process. A more general and streamlined supply chain with closer integration between different activities is a recognized method to lower the logistical costs. This is also pointed out in Kon- Krafts report from 2004, when looking at the Norwegian offshore industry. It is however some obstacles worth pointing out that make integration and co-operation challenging; • Different ERP systems • Attitude towards information exchange The creation of a shipping pool that was intended to utilize shipping resources in a more efficient way than with normal conduct has unfortunately not been as successful as one would have hoped for. This is partly caused by the fact that there are several different ERP systems in use, which does not necessarily communicate with each other. It might also be that the willingness to make them communicate is not present. This complicates the conduct of a well organized shipping pool. Although a collaborative shipping pool might not be fully functional due to different circumstances it shows that there is a shift in focus towards logistical optimization in the industry.
