The IALA World-Wide Academy S-201 Data Production Training
From 23 to 27 February 2026, at IALA HQ, the IALA World-Wide Academy delivered the S-201 Data Production Training, bringing together nineteen maritime professionals committed to advancing digital Aids to Navigation (AtoN) data management. The course provided a structured and practical introduction to the principles and processes required for the production of S-201 AtoN data within the S-100 Universal Hydrographic Data Model framework developed by the International Hydrographic Organization IHO.
Throughout the week, participants developed a comprehensive understanding of the S-201 Product Specification, relevant modelling and markup languages including UML and GML, and the transition from legacy AtoN data formats toward fully S-100-compliant data structures.
Through guided instruction and hands-on exercises, they strengthened their competencies in creating, managing, and validating S-201 datasets in accordance with international standards. The discussions highlighted both the technical challenges and the strong commitment of Competent Authorities currently navigating the early stages of S-100 implementation.
Structured, interoperable and aligned data
This training represents a further significant milestone in supporting the digital transformation of maritime safety information, ensuring that Aids to Navigation (AtoN) data are structured, interoperable, and fully aligned for integration within the evolving S-100 framework.
At IALA we extend our sincere appreciation to the lecturers and experts from the International Hydrographic Organization, Korea Research Institute of Ships and Ocean Engineering, United Kingdom Hydrographic Office and the General Lighthouse Authorities Research & Development (GRAD).
Acknowledgements
We also wish to acknowledge with gratitude our online speakers from the Canadian Coast Guard, United States Coast Guard, and the Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency for sharing their valuable perspectives and practical experience.
Finally, we convey our great appreciation to all participants for their active engagement and their high-level technical contributions throughout the week.
IALA e-Bulletin Rapporteur: Paul Ridgway.