To break away from the fixed and inflexible architecture of S-57, the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) decided to introduce a more modernised hydrographic geospatial data standard to the industry. This new data framework is known as S-100 and provides greater support in managing a wider variety of information and data that is now available thanks to modern technologies and seamless data exchange.
In time, S-57 will be replaced by S-101, the base layer of the modernised version of the standard for ENC data. The framework also includes a range of individual product specifications to manage various data sets in conjunction with the base S-101 ENC data. For example, bathymetry (S-102), surface currents (S-111), and water levels (S-104) are just some of the individual data sets that can be displayed on top of S-101 to create a more comprehensive and enhanced view for the mariner in an electronic format.
In addition to its compatibility with hydrographic data, the S-100 framework is built upon the ISO 19100 family of geographic information standards, which are widely recognised and used across various geospatial industries. This alignment with ISO standards serves a critical purpose: it facilitates the seamless integration of hydrographic data and associated applications into broader geospatial solutions. By adopting this standardised approach, S-100 ensures that systems can efficiently process, manage, and utilise highly detailed and complex information. This capability is particularly valuable for improving interoperability between different systems, enhancing data sharing, and enabling more advanced geospatial analysis and decision-making.
A screenshot of the S-102 dataset for bathymetric surface over S-101 ENC data.
This might sound complex at first, but imagine S-57 as a single storey bungalow. It does the job it’s meant to but it requires structural changes and capital injection to expand it. S-100 is like a bungalow that’s been extended. You’ve got the storeys (data layers) that make it more interesting and dynamic and it has been built with new foundations and modern materials that allow you to add new floors whenever you need to without carrying out any expensive structural work. S-100 allows you to add many new data layers that were previously challenging, if not impossible, to combine.
It’s important to note that the S-100 framework does not fundamentally alter the core principles of the S-57 standard. Instead, it enhances and modernises its capabilities. An S-100 compliant ECDIS will retain the ability to display both traditional S-57 ENC data and the newer S-101 ENC data, ensuring compatibility and continuity. This dual functionality provides mariners and other stakeholders with more comprehensive and detailed information, contributing to improved decision-making and navigation safety.
For further insight into the areas highlighted in this article, download our thought leadership report ‘New Waters’, created in partnership with the UK Hydrographic Office. Based on the findings of a comprehensive maritime research project, this report explores the five key steps to supporting the successful adoption of the International Hydrographic Organization’s (IHO) S-100 data framework.
