Standardization in Vessel Traffic Services(VTS) Manning

The question of recruitment qualification and standardization of VTS operators is reviewed through comparison with Air Traffic Control(ATC) The comparison reveals greater difference between the two services than commonality. While ATC enjoys a high degree of uniformity nationally and internationally the provision of VIS is dictated by varying local needs. The variety of those needs makes standardization of VTS operation a questionable short term objective. The paper concludes problem solving techniques such as the formal appreciation provide means of matching recruitment and qualification to local requriements.