With advancements in computer technology and numerical simulation methods for hydrodynamics, performance-driven ship optimization has become an important approach for improving the hydrodynamic performance of ships. Ship optimization comprises several key components, including parametric modeling, hydrodynamic performance evaluation, surrogate model construction, and optimization algorithms. This paper reviews developments in ship optimization technologies, summarizes typical methods and their characteristics associated with each component, and identifies challenges including high-dimensional design spaces, multidisciplinary coupling, and practical engineering applications. On this basis, the paper focuses on the development and application of OPTShip-SJTU, a ship optimization software independently developed by the Computational Marine Hydrodynamics Laboratory (CMHL) at Shanghai Jiao Tong University. The software integrates parametric modeling, in-house hydrodynamic performance solvers, multiple surrogate models, and optimization algorithms. This enables a fully automated process from geometric modification to performance evaluation and optimization, establishing a ship optimization platform with proprietary intellectual property rights. Through validation via numerous engineering applications and academic studies on various ship types, OPTShip-SJTU has demonstrated effectiveness and reliability in comprehensive ship performance evaluation and optimization. The software provides an advanced tool and solution for China's shipbuilding industry.