“It’s not just about the code being fun — it’s about building the right things, with the right people, in a space that actually needs it”
Front-End Lead John Anton ‘Tony’ Elmquist reflects on the challenges and rewards of building software for a traditional industry
Image: Tony Elmquist, Front-End Lead, Klaveness Digital
Drawn to shipping, driven by challenge
Digitalization may have gained ground in shipping — including dry bulk — but as long as spreadsheets, emails, and manual processes continue to dominate daily workflows, there’s a long way to go. For developers like Tony Elmquist, that’s exactly what makes it interesting!
"I joined Klaveness Digital in 2018 because I was really drawn to the idea of shipping,” he says. “The opportunity to work on innovative projects in a new and interesting domain, together with a talented team, was incredibly exciting."
After a short time working elsewhere in late 2022, Elmquist returned to his role at Klaveness Digital in early 2023. “I realized how much I missed the environment — especially the people and the projects. Fortunately, I was able to come back. It’s the combination of a fascinating domain and a team that’s both fun and stimulating.”
Rethinking flexibility in software design
Elmquist is currently working on version 2.0 of Klaveness Digital’s flagship product, CargoValue, a tool that simplifies inventory planning and provides real-time data to help users align and manage complex supply chain processes. It’s a redesign that reflects the complexity of the industry and the growing needs of its users.
"The original version needed more flexibility to adapt to the diverse needs of our customers," he explains. "So we’re developing a more modular, widget-based approach. That shift gives us a lot of creative freedom on the front end, which I really enjoy."
In an industry where many still rely on Excel, phones, or even fax machines, the opportunity for software to make a difference is huge. "Shipping might seem simple — moving cargo from A to B — but it’s in reality a very complex ecosystem. There are so many interdependent parts, from managing fleets to coordinating port calls and waiting times. It’s like a giant logic puzzle, and being agile in software design is crucial."
Designing for trust in a traditional industry
One of the most interesting challenges of building for this space, Elmquist says, is how it reshapes your view of what makes good UX.
"When you come from a more playful design background, your instinct is to make everything as seamless and intuitive as possible. But in shipping, where people are used to very manual tools, they need transparency more than sleek visuals or clever animations. They want to see what’s going on under the hood."
For Elmquist, that means creating tools that not only feel modern but also earn user trust. "It’s about striking that balance between clarity and confidence — about giving people a better way of working without making it feel unfamiliar or intimidating."
Meaningful problems, real impact
What makes the work feel purposeful isn’t just the complexity — it’s the impact it has.
"I’m not out to save the world, but I want to know that what I build is useful. We’re simplifying tasks for people, improving workflows, and contributing to a more efficient, more sustainable industry. That matters to me."
Dry bulk shipping plays a huge role in global trade and contributes close to 1% of global emissions. Helping to optimize supply chains, even in small ways, supports resilience, cost-efficiency, and ultimately, lowers emissions. "That sense of impact is part of what makes it satisfying at the end of the day."
For developers who want more than just code
When it comes to team culture, Elmquist says it’s the right mix of structure and freedom.
"We try to keep just enough organization to stay focused. There’s room to innovate, and collaboration is easy because we talk often and stay close to the product side. It’s not rigid or overly consensus-driven, but everyone stays aware of what’s happening. It’s a great environment."
So, what would he say to someone thinking about stepping into shipping tech?
"If you enjoy solving interesting problems, this is a really rewarding space. You can write code anywhere. But here, you’re tackling challenges that sit beneath the surface of how the world functions. It’s not just about the code being fun — it’s about building the right things, with the right people, in a space that actually needs it.”
We are hiring
Keen to see for yourself? With great ambitions, we need great people and Klaveness Digital is always looking for new talent to join the team. Reach out to learn more about what we do and what positions we offer.