Open service-oriented computing for logistics: A case in courier, express and parcel networks

Abstract

Logistics service providers are forced to optimize their operations due to increasing market pressure. Outsourcing and network optimization are measures to improve their market position. Although the underlying operational research problems in logistics are well documented and the business tendency towards outsourcing already manifests itself in the growth of many local multi vendor logistics providers, the connections between both parts into an innovative and integrated logistics concept is not yet established. Our OPEN Service-Oriented Computing for LOGistics (OPEN SOC LOG) approach proposes a system which integrates state-of-the-art optimization tools with a service-oriented computing concept in order to provide a spectrum of standardized and combinable services for logistics companies ranging from tour and network optimization to contractual and accounting functionalities. © 2010 Springer-Verlag.