ANALISIS KUALITATIF POTENSI PENERAPAN DIGITAL LOGBOOK PADA OPERASINAL DEK KAPAL NIAGA

Abstract

This research was motivated by the continued use of conventional paper-based logbooks in merchant ship deck operations, which still present various limitations, including a high risk of human error, incomplete data, inconsistent record-keeping, and difficulties in data verification and access. In addition, conventional logbooks are vulnerable to manipulation, loss, and physical damage, which may affect the quality and integrity of operational data. This study aims to analyze the risks associated with the use of conventional logbooks and to examine the potential implementation of digital logbooks in improving recording quality, operational efficiency, and data accessibility on merchant ships. The research employed a qualitative descriptive method. The study was conducted during

sea practice aboard MT. NEW STAR. Data were collected through observation, semi- structured interviews, documentation, and literature review. Primary data were obtained

from direct observations and interviews with deck officers, particularly the Second Officer and Third Officer, while secondary data were collected from international regulations, digital logbook literature, and previous studies. Data analysis was carried out through data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing, supported by source and technique triangulation to ensure data validity. The results indicate that the use of conventional logbooks remains highly dependent on human factors, creating the potential for recording errors, delays in data entry, inconsistencies in recording formats, and difficulties in operational data verification. The manual recording system is also considered inefficient because it requires manual data retrieval and management processes and does not support real-time information access for shore-based management. Meanwhile, the implementation of digital logbooks has the potential to improve recording quality through standardized input formats, automatic validation, integration with navigation equipment, and timestamp and audit trail features that support data integrity. Digital logbooks also have the potential to enhance operational efficiency and facilitate fast, accurate, and integrated access to operational data.