Why We Recommend Helm CONNECT for Recordkeeping

Overview

If you’ve started exploring how to go paperless, you already know the benefits: less paperwork, faster reporting, and a clearer view of your operation. The next question is how to make it happen.

In our experience working with maritime operators of all sizes, Helm CONNECT consistently proves to be the most practical and powerful platform for electronic recordkeeping. It’s built for the maritime world, designed with compliance in mind, and flexible enough to fit your existing workflows.

Whether you manage one tug or an entire fleet, Helm CONNECT makes digital recordkeeping simple, reliable, and inspection-ready so your team can focus on operations, not paperwork.

1. Built for the Maritime Industry

Unlike generic compliance software, Helm CONNECT was designed specifically for maritime operations,  from tugs and barges to dredging and offshore fleets. Its workflows match how vessels already operate, making digital adoption smoother for crews and managers alike.

When you get Helm CONNECT with TBS Safety, you get all of the forms and training necessary to stay safe and compliant. You can get started from day one.

2. Simple, Intuitive, and Crew-Friendly

Helm CONNECT’s interface is straightforward and easy to learn. Crews can log maintenance, drills, and inspections in just a few taps, even offline. When connectivity returns, the system syncs automatically.

That simplicity ensures crews actually use it turning compliance into part of the daily routine rather than a chore.

3. Coast Guard–Ready and Audit-Proof

Every entry is time-stamped, traceable, and locked for authenticity. That means you can pull up complete, verified logs instantly during a Subchapter M inspection, audit, or COI renewal with no binders required.

Helm CONNECT makes recordkeeping transparent and verifiable, giving you confidence before, during, and after an audit.

4. One System, Total Visibility

Helm CONNECT connects safety, maintenance, people, and compliance into one platform. You can: 

• Link corrective actions to inspection results

• Track training and certifications

• Identify trends in near misses or deficiencies

• Generate reports in seconds

This integration gives operators a real-time view of fleet health and safety performance.

5. Scales to Fit Your Operation

Whether you’re a small operator or manage hundreds of vessels, Helm CONNECT grows with you. Smaller fleets can start with core modules; larger operations can customize dashboards and reporting for full oversight.

Ready to Take the Next Step Toward Going Paperless?

Learn more about how and why fleets are making the shift in these related articles:

• Why Maritime Operators Are Going Paperless →

• Go Paperless, Sail Smarter: A Practical Look at Digital Logbooks →

Together, these resources walk you through the why, how, and what of going paperless — and why Helm CONNECT is the tool we trust to make it happen.

If you want more information about how Helm CONNECT could work for your operations, let us know by requesting more information!