Connecting 

people 

and 

technology

Fjord Base Group has a clear vision: to connect people and technology to build the Fjord Base of the future. In this work, the IT department plays a key role. Every day, they work to make the base more efficient, safer, and greener—goals that are crucial to securing our long-term competitiveness.

Over more than 40 years, Fjord Base has evolved from a traditional supply base into a modern industrial hub with an ever-growing need for digital solutions. At the same time, the IT department has also changed. Where the focus previously was on operations, support, and infrastructure, today the work is increasingly about development, innovation, and continuous improvements.

“More and more of our systems are now being moved to the cloud, and that makes everyday life easier for both users and the IT department. It frees up time to work on small and large development projects that streamline our operations,” says Børge Nordal, Head of IT and Digitalization at Fjord Base Group.

A new addition of expertise

This autumn, the team received a long-awaited addition when Ørjan Tornvik was hired as a Senior Full-Stack Developer, bringing solid experience from Evoy and Mercatus. He moved from Hardanger to Florø in 2002 when he got a job here after completing his studies. Now he has settled down with his family—and enjoys both the professional environment and the local community.

“Fjord Base Group has a very exciting technology environment that works closely with many different companies. That provides a varied workday and insight into needs within both oil and gas, and how I, as a software developer, can help digitize and streamline operations.”

He also highlights IoT as an area with great potential.

“With small, affordable sensors, we can monitor everything from machinery to buildings and equipment. Good data, presented in a structured way, provides a basis for better decisions and innovation,” he says.

Saga Connect: A boost for logistics

One of the most comprehensive projects the IT department has delivered is the development of Saga Connect, Fjord Base’s own digital logistics and planning solution for all quay operations. The project has been extensive both technically and financially, and the Norwegian Coastal Administration has contributed important funding support. Knowit in Bergen has carried out much of the development work.

Saga Connect enables vessels to register arrival, departure, and service needs well in advance. Typical tasks may include loading, unloading, bunkering of fuel and water, crew changes, or maintenance. When the vessel arrives alongside the quay, all involved suppliers are ready and can start work in the right sequence. The entire operation can be followed in real time by both vessels and suppliers.

“Saga Connect is a very good example of how we deliver on our vision. Previously, planning involved many phone calls, emails, and Excel spreadsheets, and it was difficult for everyone to have a complete overview. Now the entire logistics process is digital and transparent,” says Børge.

The figures show a significant impact from Saga Connect. Mattis Brandsøy, Advisor Digital, has worked on the platform since its inception.

“In the first year of operation, turnaround time was reduced by 26 percent, and the need for quay changes was reduced by 30 percent. These improvements alone delivered a CO₂ saving of 300 tonnes over one year. That shows how important digitalization is for both efficiency and the environment,” he says.

In addition, smaller improvement projects are highlighted, such as the digitalization of user inspection of containers. Equinor removed plastic rig tags to reduce plastic consumption, and when this was digitized, the process became both faster and more environmentally friendly.

Artificial intelligence offers major opportunities

The IT department is now working on developing an AI strategy for the group. The goal is to identify how artificial intelligence can be used to support employees in their daily work and make processes more efficient.

“AI is not magic. It has its limitations, but also great potential—especially when it comes to handling large amounts of data. We have established a dedicated super-user group that tests solutions in practice, and experience so far shows measurable gains,” says Børge.

He emphasizes that technology can never replace people. But it can make us more productive, safer, and better prepared for the future.

Strong focus on cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is another central part of the IT department’s work. The threat landscape is more complex than ever, and it requires both robust technical systems and a high level of competence among employees.

“We have worked systematically both to strengthen the technical solutions and to build culture and awareness in the organization. Most incidents are caused by human error, so knowledge and good routines are absolutely critical,” says Børge.

“Fortunately, we’ve avoided that,” Mattis adds with a smile.

The road ahead

Going forward, the IT department will continue to further develop Saga Connect, explore new opportunities within IoT and AI, and strengthen the base’s digital infrastructure. At the same time, they will continue to be an active sparring partner for all the companies at the base.