Software joint venture
Herbert-ABS will offer leading edge loading and salvage analysis software packages as well as software design tools to the maritime and offshore industries.
Herbert-ABS will own, market and support the existing suite of Herbert software products including its shipboard loading software (CargoMax), salvage response software (HECSALV), and load management software for offshore structures (LMP). Herbert-ABS will leverage the resources of ABS as well as HEC’s offices in China and Europe to provide its clients worldwide service and support.
Herbert-ABS is positioned to enhance existing products and develop new software solutions on an accelerated schedule. Development plans for 2011 include an enhanced containership stowage module, performance monitoring and optimization tools, and a load management, condition monitoring, and emergency response package for offshore vessels and structures. The latter product will be integrated into a Rapid Response and Damage Assessment (RRDA) service to be offered by ABS to the offshore industry.
A Board of Directors representing both HEC and ABS will be established to guide the strategic direction of Herbert-ABS. The board members from ABS will be Karen Hughey – President of ABS Nautical Systems Division and Todd Grove -Chief Technology Officer of ABS. Keith Michel – Chairman of the HEC companies and Robert Tagg – President of Herbert Software Solutions, Inc. (HSSI) will represent HEC.
The experienced personnel from HSSI will transition to Herbert-ABS which will be headquartered in Alameda, California.
ABS states, through its ABS Nautical Systems division, to be the fastest growing provider of fleet management software in the world. Its offerings are at the forefront of software solutions that promote cost and operation efficiency for the maritime industry. Through these innovative and customer-driven investments in research and development, ABS is able to supply its clients with practical software solutions that can have a measurable impact on a ship or offshore user’s operations and business.
The closing of the agreement to form Herbert-ABS is subject to customary closing conditions.
