John Larsson's Licentiate Seminar

• Thesis title: Exploring Data Sharing through the Lens of Open Data Ecosystems in Public-Private Freight Logistics
• Author: John Larsson, Department of Computer Science, Lund University
• Faculty opponent: Senior Research Lead Daniel Rudmark, VTI, Statens väg- och transportforskningsinstitut
• Examiner: Senior Lecturer Emelie Engström, LTH
• Supervisor: Professor Per Runeson, LTH
• Co-supervisor: Adjunct Senior Lecturer Johan Linåker, LTH
• Date and time: Friday 16 October at 10:15
• Location: E:1406, E-huset, LTH, Klas Anshelms väg 10/Ole Römers väg 3, Lund
• Link to the licentiate thesis in LUCRIS, where it can be downloaded (opens in new window)

Abstract

Background: The freight transport sector is expected to grow, and with sustainability challenges, there is a need for more efficient solutions. Data sharing has been identified as one approach to increase efficiency in the domain of freight logistics by sharing transport-related information within an Open Data Ecosystem (ODE). This enables involved actors to collaborate towards a common goal, supported by a technological platform.

Objective: This thesis aims to develop a conceptual, empirical, and design-oriented understanding of data sharing through the lens of ODEs. Within the context of municipal and regional freight logistics, the thesis investigates how data sharing is organized in practice and explores design insights that may support the development of more efficient and sustainable freight logistics through data sharing solutions.

Methodology: The research follows a design science research approach consisting of three interconnected studies. The first paper employs a literature review to develop a conceptual understanding of data sharing in ODEs in relation to logistics. The second paper builds on this understanding through a longitudinal multiple-case study of three cases, involving prolonged participation with stakeholders and validation through a workshop. Drawing on the findings from the first two studies, the third study takes initial steps towards the solution domain by exploring design insights and mechanisms from cross-sector domains.

Results: The results show that data sharing emerges as a central mechanism within ODEs, but it takes different forms depending on elements such as technical maturity, organizational structure, and governance arrangements. A conceptual model was developed to illustrate platforms, stakeholders, relationships, and roles. The findings identify recurring socio-technical challenges related to interoperability, data quality, governance, procurement, and sensitive data. Building on these findings, we identified design insights and supporting mechanisms that may contribute to the development of more flexible and interoperable data sharing platforms.

Conclusion: The thesis contributes a conceptual understanding of data sharing in ODEs, an empirical understanding of data sharing in municipal and regional freight logistics, and initial design-oriented knowledge in the form of design insights and mechanisms. The research progresses from the problem domain towards the solution domain, where the identified design insights provide a foundation for future research concerning the development and evaluation of TMS platforms.