For logistics service providers, the advantages of open source are obvious: the collaborative development of software saves costs, the software increases the user-friendliness of physical logistics and improves efficiency. Logistics IT partners, on the other hand, often fear for their market. However, open source developments offer them numerous opportunities to expand their business, retain existing customers and acquire new ones. “Today, open source and proprietary solutions can merge with, reinforce and inspire each other,” explains Dr. Michael Schmidt, Logistics & SCM Advisor of the Open Logistics Foundation. Ulrich Buhrmann, Executive Director at the technology and software company iteratec, a member of the Open Logistics Foundation, agrees: “We are convinced that our customers gain a competitive advantage when our work is based on open source. It also strengthens our relationship with our customers.” (....)