Title: Establishing an integrated virtual logistics network

Authors: Vicky Manthou, Dimitris Folinas, Maro Vlachopoulou

Addresses: Department of Applied Informatics, University of Macedonia, 156 Egnatia Str, GR-540 06, Thessaloniki, Greece. ' Department of Applied Informatics, University of Macedonia, 156 Egnatia Str, GR-540 06, Thessaloniki, Greece. ' Department of Applied Informatics, University of Macedonia, 156 Egnatia Str, GR-540 06, Thessaloniki, Greece

Abstract: As organisations confront a dynamic global environment, they are increasingly forced to create virtual networks so as to remain competitive. These networks focus on joint performance, joint development of strategic objectives and commitment to share risks. As a result, they need to exchange information automatically with their trading partners and suppliers and to integrate their logistics systems. In this paper, a methodology is suggested illustrating the steps for integrating logistics information and processes among members of a virtual network. A software application is further developed based on the proposed steps supporting specific tasks, for the collaboration of partners exchanges and processes, in order to enable effective partnerships in a virtual environment. The proposed platform endows companies with a real and innovative web-based solution for improving their interoperability. The demonstration of the platform and the evaluation of the software have been applied by a pilot project in the agribusiness sector.

Keywords: virtual logistics networks; logistics processes; information integration; application service provider; XML schema; logistics information; virtual networks; virtual collaboration; interoperability; internet; agribusiness; web-based cooperation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJLSM.2005.006238

International Journal of Logistics Systems and Management, 2005 Vol.1 No.4, pp.354 - 365

Published online: 07 Feb 2005 *

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