Inter-Organization Interoperability in Transport Chains Using Adapters Based on Open Source Freeware

The significance of electronic information exchange in transport chains and its influence on the performance of the logistics processes is wellknown. While much focus is still on the various techniques for information exchange, many SMEs experience problems that are not primarily caused by an absence of technology. Several advanced solutions exist but investment possibilities within many SMEs are very limited while their needs for electronic data exchange may be very similar as for the large companies. We describe a general “adapter” solution based on open source freeware that make it possible (in principle) for any business system to exchange information with any other business system. It has been successfully applied in a pilot study involving two companies (the transport operator being an SME) using different business systems (Hogia Mobilast and Movex). The solution was evaluated with the result that it met the requirements of the companies and is now planned to be used for future data exchange between the companies.