Future of Logistics:
Digitalization through research

The digitalization in logistics is mainly driven by the growing opportunities for collecting and processing data, along with the development of artificial intelligence-based solutions: New forms of value creation are reflected in networked data ecosystems and platforms. These business models are made possible through the innovative use of data and strengthened by network effects. Added value is no longer created solely through the collection and presentation of data, but through the combination, interpretation and exchange with other data and technologies, as well as through the involvement of relevant stakeholders. Digital platforms that streamline processes, interpret data, and connect with other technologies and market players allow companies to concentrate on their core business while also generating new customer benefits.

These developments first require a consistent understanding of data and the underlying processes. Against this background, but also in view of increasing regulation, especially with regard to the sustainability of processes, Fraunhofer IML is strongly committed to the development of digital standards. This applies in particular to standard services, so-called commodities, with which companies cannot differentiate themselves from the competition. With the establishment of the Open Logistics Foundation, Fraunhofer IML has provided a framework that gives companies the space to pursue pragmatic (de facto) standardization initiatives through collaborative software development.

Our research field “Digital platforms”

Digital platforms that are used to share data, goods, information and services are the future of logistics. However, companies need the right business models and management approaches to be able to take advantage of the many opportunities offered by digital value creation. The platform economy is enabled by interconnecting the physical world with the digital world and the production, trade and exchange of data. The decisive factor for the success of platforms is the cooperation of various players along different supply chain levels. The technologies and infrastructures for such digital networks already exist today. Nevertheless, the full potential of the platform or network economy frequently remains unexplored. 

The success of platforms or an associated network economy is not merely a technological concern related to data ecosystems. It is fundamentally about the business model and the management strategy required to provide the corresponding value proposition. Against this background, Fraunhofer IML is working on the design of digital platforms and the identification of new business models in a platform economy in numerous research projects.

The “Silicon Economy Integration Guideline” does not only explain the concept of open-source software but also gives an overview of how digital platforms work in general, explains the differences between B2B- and B2C- or C2C platforms and shows how challenges in implementing B2B platforms can be tackled.

Our research field “Information systems and digital infrastructure”

Today's value creation takes place primarily in digital ecosystems and through the exchange of data along complex supply chains. The central components of digital value chains are the networking and data exchange of the partners involved. In the process, data leaves company boundaries. Today, digital infrastructures must go beyond merely ensuring the security of this data: they must reatain sovereignty over their data. This is especially true in the sensitive area of contracts: Even today, contracts can be negotiated and legally concluded in digital ecosystems entirely without human interaction. Fraunhofer IML is investigating and implementing ways to establish such a digital infrastructure in accordance with European values, enabling all parties involved to exchange data securely and with confidence.

Digital twins - virtual counterparts of physical objects, processes or systems - are now the key concept for Industry 4.0 and are becoming synonymous with the digitalization of logistics. They enable the precise replication of real objects and processes that were previously inaccessible for information purposes and to monitor them in real time.

In the field of warehouse automation, digital twins open up new possibilities for more precise control of warehouse processes and support process optimization. They initially provide an overview of the current situation for operations and form the basis for further optimizations in planning. In the area of production, they provide a detailed visualization of the entire production environment, including machines, systems and production lines. By utilizing real-time data and simulations of various scenarios, production processes can be designed not only more efficiently but also flexibly adjusted to accommodate changes or sudden fluctuations in demand.

In supply chain management, digital twins offer a comprehensive view of the entire supply chain - from the procurement of raw materials to the delivery of the end product. They thus create a dynamic, transparent basis for well-founded decisions throughout supply chain management.

In transport logistics, digital twins ensure that the entire logistics process is more efficient, more transparent and more adaptable.