Delphi study over language technologies use to improve maritime communications

Abstract

The inadequate knowledge of language is identified by International Maritime Organization as one of the forty four components of the so-called human factor or human element. One of the possible actions aimed to prevent or to reduce the negative consequences derived from the lack of misuse of a common language on maritime communications is based on the research over the use of new communication and information technologies in maritime settings and its adaptation to communication needs in such setting. In that respect and from University of A Coruña, a project is being developed with the object of studying the feasibility of these technologies application to maritime communications, with the purpose of improving its efficiency as well as to encourage the maritime safety aspects related to them. One of the basic actions to develop this project is the carrying out of a Delphi study – experts´ panel- with the aim of stating the legal, commercial and technical viability of the use of this kind of resources through the enquiry to maritime experts which develop a considerable part of their professional activities in an international communication environment. The present article analyse the views expressed by these experts on maritime communications over he possible implementation of language technologies in maritime settings.