1. Overview

The Ship-Function Information (SFI) coding system is a globally standardized functional breakdown structure developed by the Ship Research Institute of Norway for classifying all technical, operational, and maintenance-related information of ships and offshore installations.

• Primary Use: Maritime asset management and maintenance systems
• Industry Standard: Used by shipbuilders, operators, and classification societies
• Applications: PMS integration, spare parts tracking, technical documentation
• Structure: 4-level hierarchical decimal system (XX.YYY format)

2. Technical Structure

“The SFI system serves as digital DNA of the vessel, enabling structured asset management across shipowners, shipbuilders, classification societies, and OEM suppliers. Its hierarchical nature provides both system-wide standardization and component-level specificity.”

Example Breakdown: Code 735.007 would be used for all documentation, maintenance tasks, and spare parts related specifically to stern tube forward seals within the propulsion system’s shaft arrangements.

3. Implementation

Practical applications of SFI coding in maritime operations:

1. Planned Maintenance Systems (PMS) – Each job plan and equipment component is assigned a unique SFI code, enabling standardized maintenance across fleets
2. Technical Documentation Control – Manuals, certificates, and drawings are filed under SFI codes for quick retrieval
3. Spare Parts Management – Warehouse indexing uses SFI hierarchy for accurate inventory tracking
4. Procurement Processes – RFQs include SFI codes to ensure part compatibility and eliminate ambiguity

Digital Implementation Example:

|-- 600 Machinery
    |-- 632 Diesel Engines
        |-- 632.001 Main Engine
            |-- Maintenance
            |-- Drawings
            |-- Spare Parts
        |-- 632.002 Cylinder Head
        |-- 632.003 LO Filter

This folder structure mirrors the SFI hierarchy in digital document management systems, creating a standardized architecture across all technical files.

4. System Comparison

Feature	SFI System	NATO NSN	UNSPSC	Vendor Codes
Maritime Focus	Optimized	Limited	General	System-dependent
Functional Hierarchy	4-level	2-level	4-level	Varies
Maintenance Support	Comprehensive	Limited	Minimal	Partial
Global Standardization	Maritime	Military	Commercial	Proprietary
Digital Integration	Excellent	Moderate	Moderate	Limited

The SFI system offers superior functionality-based classification specifically designed for maritime lifecycle asset management compared to general-purpose coding systems.

5. Future Development

Emerging integration opportunities for SFI coding in digital transformation:

• Digital Twin Integration – SFI codes serving as the backbone for virtual asset modeling and real-time monitoring
• AI-Powered Analytics – Machine learning analysis of maintenance data aggregated by SFI codes
• Blockchain Applications – Immutable maintenance records linked to SFI codes for audit trails
• Automated Documentation – AI-assisted technical document tagging using SFI classification

The SFI system is evolving to become a central component of smart shipping initiatives, predictive maintenance systems, and integrated vessel management platforms through these advanced digital integrations.