Enabling Data-sharing in Logistics through Open Data Ecosystems – A Literature Review

Background: Road transportation is one of the main sources of CO2 emissions. Making logistics more efficient, e.g., through co-loading freight transport, would reduce emissions. However, this requires the sharing of freight and routing data between actors in the logistics chain. Aim: This study aims to explore the literature on how Open Data Ecosystems (ODEs) can be applied to the logistics sector. The study focuses on ODE governance, the actors involved, and legal and quality aspects. Method: The literature review employed publication database search, snowball sampling, and selected governmental literature. Thematic analysis is carried out on the identified literature. Results: The results indicate how an ODE can be applied to the logistics sector, although primarily evident in public transport. For freight transport, literature refers to Horizontal Collaboration. The literature is consistent in terms of governance of the ODEs and Horizontal Collaboration where there is typically a need for a neutral actor to take on the role of a platform provider to promote trust and enable collaboration. Conclusions: We conclude that the two literature streams of ODEs and Horizontal Collaboration could be integrated and foster a more efficient logistics sector where data is shared among the involved actors. Our findings also indicate aspects underpinning the collaboration among actors.