4.0 DATA ENTRY WINDOWS

Data is entered into the files, browsed and edited through data entry windows accessed through pull down menus. The windows are largely self explanatory once they are opened. In each window there are various pushbuttons, which take you to other windows in the program. All of the buttons are color coded, so that a certain color button accomplishes the same function in all of the windows. This is explained in the start up screen as you open the ShipMan program.

Insofar as possible, logic drives the operator from window to window. For instance, if you are in the main engine data in the Ship Equipment Data window and you push the Spares button, the program takes you to the first spare part in the Ship Spare Parts File for the main engine. Likewise, the Maintenance button takes you to the first preventive maintenance action for the Main Engine. Unless you get out of the data file for the ship you are dealing with, for instance to go to the Warehouse or the Company Information Files, the program will keep you in that ship data file. If you do get out, the program will ask you for a ship data file when you select a window which uses ship data. In all windows and reports, the data file you are using is shown at the top of the window or report to alert you that you may be working in the wrong ship data file.

There is an Action Items pull down menu on the right hand side of the menu bar which brings up specific items which may need attention. These include parts to be ordered and maintenance to be performed.

The basic functions of major window  are as follows:

4.1 Ship Equipment Data

This window is used to enter the ship equipment configuration including nomenclature, ship location, equipment documentation such as manufacturer model number and part number, serial number, capacity, voltage and amperage for electrical loads, weights, manufacturer and vendor information, and technical documentation information such as technical and parts manuals and applicable engineering drawings.

4.2 Shipboard Spare Parts

This window is used to enter the shipboard spare parts data including quantities onboard, recommended quantities,  nomenclature, stowage location, vendor information, buy quantities, purchase order information including quantity ordered and backordered, and physical inventory information.