What started as a Norwegian research initiative is becoming an internationally adopted design framework for maritime user interfaces.
In this episode, Janne Silden speaks with Professor Kjetil Nordby from the Oslo School of Architecture and Design and Ronald Epskamp, Manager Office Benelux at Bachmann electronic, about the collaboration behind OpenBridge.
Originally developed as a research initiative to create a common design language for maritime user interfaces, OpenBridge has evolved into an open-source design framework that is now used and explored by companies around the world. What began with ship bridges has expanded to machinery systems, handheld devices, remote operation centres and, increasingly, industrial applications beyond the maritime sector.
The conversation explores why consistent user interface design matters in complex operational environments. With crews interacting with equipment from multiple manufacturers, a common design approach can reduce complexity, improve usability and ultimately contribute to safer operations.
Ronald Epskamp explains why Bachmann adopted OpenBridge early in its development. As a technology supplier, Bachmann recognised the value of integrating an established design framework into its SCADA platform, enabling customers and system integrators to implement OpenBridge more easily while keeping the framework itself open source.
Professor Nordby also shares how OpenBridge has grown through continuous collaboration between academia and industry. Companies contribute feedback, participate in research projects, help develop open-source code libraries and influence the future direction of the framework. Rather than being driven by traditional marketing, OpenBridge has gained international attention through its growing community and practical value, with adoption extending well beyond its Norwegian origins.
Whether you are involved in ship design, automation, digitalisation or user experience, this episode offers valuable insights into how open-source collaboration and close industry partnerships can accelerate innovation and create more intuitive digital systems for maritime operations.
