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Harvard Case - Safe Boat Trip Ltd.: Launching the Flying Ferries

"Safe Boat Trip Ltd.: Launching the Flying Ferries" Harvard business case study is written by Joshin John, Neetha J. Eappen, Sushil Kumar. It deals with the challenges in the field of Operations Management. The case study is 9 page(s) long and it was first published on : Sep 25, 2017

At Fern Fort University, we recommend that Safe Boat Trip Ltd. proceed with the launch of the Flying Ferries, but with a strategic approach that prioritizes operational efficiency, robust supply chain management, and a phased rollout to mitigate risks and ensure a successful market entry. This recommendation is based on a comprehensive analysis of the company's current capabilities, market opportunities, and potential challenges.

2. Background

Safe Boat Trip Ltd. is a successful ferry operator in the Philippines, known for its reliable and affordable services. The company seeks to expand its operations by introducing a new service: Flying Ferries. These high-speed catamarans, equipped with hydrofoils, promise faster travel times and a more comfortable experience for passengers. The company faces several challenges, including:

  • High initial investment: Developing and acquiring the Flying Ferries requires significant capital expenditure.
  • Uncertain market demand: The market for high-speed ferry services is still developing, and the company needs to assess passenger demand and pricing strategies.
  • Operational complexities: Managing the new fleet and integrating it with existing operations requires careful planning and execution.
  • Competition: Existing ferry operators and potential new entrants may pose a competitive threat.

3. Analysis of the Case Study

Strategic Analysis:

  • Competitive Advantage: The Flying Ferries offer a unique value proposition: faster travel times and a more comfortable experience. This aligns with the company's existing focus on affordability and reliability, creating a potential competitive advantage.
  • Market Opportunity: The Philippines has a growing demand for faster and more efficient transportation options, particularly for inter-island travel. This presents a significant market opportunity for Safe Boat Trip Ltd.
  • Risk Assessment: The high initial investment, uncertain market demand, and potential competition pose significant risks. A thorough risk assessment and mitigation plan are crucial for success.

Operational Analysis:

  • Operations Strategy: The company needs to develop a robust operations strategy that integrates the Flying Ferries into its existing operations. This includes optimizing fleet utilization, scheduling, and maintenance.
  • Supply Chain Management: Establishing a reliable supply chain for the new vessels, spare parts, and other consumables is essential. This requires identifying and managing suppliers, establishing inventory control systems, and ensuring timely delivery.
  • Innovation: The Flying Ferries represent a significant innovation for the company. The company needs to manage the development, testing, and implementation of this new technology effectively.

Financial Analysis:

  • Investment Analysis: The company needs to conduct a thorough financial analysis to assess the profitability of the Flying Ferries project. This includes evaluating the return on investment, payback period, and potential cash flows.
  • Pricing Strategy: Determining the appropriate pricing strategy for the Flying Ferries is crucial. The company needs to balance profitability with market demand and competitive pressures.

4. Recommendations

1. Phased Rollout:

  • Pilot Project: Launch a pilot project with a limited number of Flying Ferries on a specific route with high demand and minimal competition. This allows for testing and refining operations before full-scale deployment.
  • Gradual Expansion: Based on the success of the pilot project, gradually expand the Flying Ferry service to other routes and increase the fleet size. This allows for controlled growth and minimizes risks.

2. Robust Supply Chain Management:

  • Supplier Selection: Carefully select suppliers for the Flying Ferries, spare parts, and other consumables. Evaluate suppliers based on quality, reliability, and cost.
  • Inventory Control: Implement an efficient inventory control system to manage the flow of materials and minimize stockouts. This can include using Just-in-Time (JIT) inventory management, Materials Requirements Planning (MRP), or an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system.
  • Logistics Management: Establish a strong logistics network to ensure timely delivery of materials and parts. This may involve outsourcing logistics operations to a specialized provider.

3. Operational Excellence:

  • Operations Strategy: Develop a comprehensive operations strategy that integrates the Flying Ferries into existing operations. This includes optimizing fleet utilization, scheduling, maintenance, and crew training.
  • Process Design: Design efficient processes for boarding, disembarking, and passenger handling. This can involve streamlining processes, using technology for ticketing and check-in, and optimizing facilities layout.
  • Quality Management: Implement a robust quality management system to ensure the safety, reliability, and comfort of the Flying Ferries. This includes regular maintenance, inspection, and adherence to industry standards.

4. Marketing and Sales:

  • Market Research: Conduct thorough market research to understand passenger preferences, pricing sensitivity, and potential demand for the Flying Ferries.
  • Targeted Marketing: Develop a targeted marketing campaign to reach potential customers. This can include online advertising, social media marketing, and partnerships with travel agencies.
  • Pricing Strategy: Develop a competitive pricing strategy that balances profitability with market demand and competitive pressures.

5. Technology and Analytics:

  • Information Systems: Invest in robust information systems to manage operations, track performance, and analyze data. This can include an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system, and data analytics tools.
  • Technology Integration: Integrate technology into operations to improve efficiency and customer service. This can include online ticketing, mobile apps, and real-time tracking systems.
  • Operations Analytics: Use data analytics to optimize operations, identify bottlenecks, and predict demand.

6. Risk Management:

  • Risk Assessment: Conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify potential risks associated with the Flying Ferries project. This includes financial, operational, and market risks.
  • Risk Mitigation: Develop a comprehensive risk mitigation plan to address identified risks. This may involve insurance, contingency planning, and proactive measures to minimize potential losses.

7. Organizational Change Management:

  • Communication: Communicate the launch of the Flying Ferries to employees, stakeholders, and the public. This helps to build support and manage expectations.
  • Training: Provide training to employees on the new technology, procedures, and safety protocols. This ensures a smooth transition and minimizes operational disruptions.
  • Culture Change: Foster a culture of innovation, efficiency, and customer service to support the successful implementation of the Flying Ferries.

5. Basis of Recommendations

These recommendations are based on a thorough analysis of the case study, considering the following factors:

  • Core Competencies: The recommendations leverage the company's existing expertise in ferry operations, customer service, and cost-effectiveness.
  • External Customers: The recommendations focus on meeting the needs of passengers by providing faster travel times, a more comfortable experience, and competitive pricing.
  • Internal Clients: The recommendations aim to improve employee satisfaction by providing training, clear communication, and opportunities for growth.
  • Competitors: The recommendations consider the competitive landscape and aim to differentiate the Flying Ferries by offering a unique value proposition.
  • Attractiveness: The recommendations are based on a financial analysis that suggests a positive return on investment and a strong potential for profitability.

6. Conclusion

The launch of the Flying Ferries presents a significant opportunity for Safe Boat Trip Ltd. to expand its operations, enhance its competitive position, and capture a growing market. By adopting a phased rollout strategy, focusing on operational excellence, and implementing robust supply chain management, the company can mitigate risks, ensure a successful market entry, and achieve long-term profitability.

7. Discussion

Alternatives:

  • Delaying the launch: This would allow the company to further assess market demand and develop a more comprehensive plan. However, it would also risk losing market share to competitors.
  • Launching a full-scale rollout: This would allow the company to capture market share quickly. However, it would also expose the company to greater financial and operational risks.

Risks:

  • High initial investment: The project requires significant capital expenditure, which could impact the company's financial stability.
  • Uncertain market demand: The market for high-speed ferry services is still developing, and the company may not be able to achieve the projected passenger demand.
  • Competition: Existing ferry operators and potential new entrants may pose a competitive threat.

Key Assumptions:

  • The Flying Ferries will be successful in meeting passenger expectations.
  • The company will be able to secure the necessary funding for the project.
  • The company will be able to manage the operational complexities of the new service.

8. Next Steps

Timeline:

  • Year 1: Conduct pilot project, refine operations, and assess market demand.
  • Year 2: Expand Flying Ferry service to additional routes and increase fleet size.
  • Year 3: Evaluate performance, make adjustments as needed, and consider further expansion.

Key Milestones:

  • Secure funding for the project.
  • Select suppliers and establish supply chain.
  • Develop operations strategy and implement necessary processes.
  • Launch pilot project and gather data.
  • Conduct market research and develop marketing campaign.
  • Monitor performance and make adjustments as needed.

By following these recommendations and taking a strategic approach, Safe Boat Trip Ltd. can successfully launch the Flying Ferries and achieve its growth objectives.

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Case Description

Safe Boat Trip Private Limited (Safe Boat Trip) of Kerala, India, is planning to launch a hydrofoil ferry service connecting the Port of Kochi, India, with two other ports in the state of Kerala by August 2016, to benefit from the tourism potential of the season in Kerala. The managing director has asked the principal superintendent of Safe Boat Trip to prepare a project plan for the boats to be commissioned into service, following approval from the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS). The principal superintendent must also carry out a break-even analysis of the project investment. With these challenges before him, the superintendent must set out to devise a solid plan of action before the company's next meeting.

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