When asked about the Product Model, this is what they had to say:

Updated IMO news and forecast
Carlos A. Capuñay, Technical Officer, Panama Maritime Authority in New York, comments:
Since DNV introduced DNV Exchange, many other class societies and administrations have recognised the advantage of having this streamlined flow of information. DNV Exchange gives us first-hand, accurate and updated information about our vessels. This type of information allows us to take faster and well-informed decisions on a daily basis, and to facilitate the administration of a large fleet such as the Panamanian.

We find it particularly helpful to be informed about new IMO requirements and DNV Exchange provides us with a quick reference to dates of entry into force. We are certain that services such as access to the directory of approved service suppliers, and approved products and manufacturers, are great-time savers to our vessels owners and operators.

Benefits
Kevin T. Hagerty, Manager of Class Society Oversight, Marine Safety Center of the U.S. Coast Guard, Washington, DC:
The Service Experience and Publications sections help identify where vessel designs are adequate or might need improvement. They help provide information regarding industry trends and emerging technologies, and whether some technologies are cost-effective in terms of safety. The DNV Exchange site helps establish a benchmark for comparing class societies, especially those performing authorised work on behalf of flag states.

Checking vessels status
David L. Crede from IRI, Maritime & Corporate Administrator of the Republic of the Marshall Islands:
I use DNV Exchange primarily to check on vessel status when the operator requests an extension to certificates or some other due item. It gives me a feeling for whether they are making an honest effort to fulfill survey requirements, and knowledge of any outstanding items that may be inconsistent with granting the operators request.

I am able to gain rapid access to a wealth of information regarding a specific vessel in the registry. I especially like the fact that you distinguish between bottom surveys that are conducted in dry-dock, and those performed afloat. I believe that DNV is the only classification society that clearly makes this distinction.