Cloud

A cloud (English for cloud) is a service on the Internet that provides storage space, as well as application software or computing power, without the user having to operate these functions or programs locally, as a cloud is usually available online on the Internet. Therefore, it is accessible from any computer worldwide. This makes it particularly interesting for companies that want to network intensively with their business partners and need secure access to their data from different locations – as in the logistics industry. In addition, there are also internal company cloud infrastructures.

Among the numerous cloud solutions, the following are the most interesting for logistics companies:

• Private clouds for company-specific applications. To ensure data security, these clouds can only be accessed internally, i.e., for example, via a non-public network like the intranet. Private clouds can be set up for the entire workforce (Enterprise Cloud) or for different departments (Departmental Clouds). The costs are borne by the company, as the hardware is also located at the company.
• Public clouds are services made accessible over the Internet. Certain structures are predefined here, which the registered user can access. Payment is based on usage.
• Hybrid clouds combine the advantages of private clouds for internal company data with the capabilities of public clouds. The cost distribution here depends on the system used.
• Community clouds are a special form. They are jointly used by a selected group of people, e.g., for cooperatives or companies with a common cooperation. The costs are shared among the users.

With cloud technologies or cloud computing, all partners and suppliers within a supply chain can access the same IT data basis. Cloud technologies support efficient logistics processes, make them controllable, and contribute to cost efficiency.