Chain.io, an innovator in cloud-based supply chain integration, has announced the beta release of its open access Chain.io Platform. The technology is a cloud-native supply chain integration and intelligence service that helps shippers, logistics service providers, and logistics software providers share data more efficiently and dramatically reduce the cost of connectivity.

Chain.io fills the gap in the industry where one-on-one software integration has become too complex and costly. Via the company’s technology, clients will be able to develop a one-time connection to the platform and instantly be connected to other partners in the supply chain. Unlike legacy VANs (virtual area networks), the cloud native platform allows for self-service and a significantly lower total cost of ownership.

“This platform is the culmination of decades of combined work across the team,” said Brian Glick, CEO of Chain.io. “Leveraging open APIs [application programming interfaces], a collaborative data model, a pay-for-what-you-use pricing structure, Chain.io will transform the way that the logistics industry collaborates.”

While Chain.io was officially launched earlier this year by a group of industry experts, its technology has been in the works for some time. The company leverages modern, cloud-based technologies like Functions as a Service, NoSQL, and Data Streams which allows the platform to deliver lightning fast performance while maintaining the highest levels of scalability, reliability and security.

“Connectivity began with a bi-directional, costly, EDI integration between only two trading partners. Each new partner came with the same costly, bi-directional connectivity,” said Glick. “Today, we reduce the development time and expense by allowing a company to create a single connection to Chain.io. From here, any other company can do the same, allowing for a nexus of interconnected parties as the platform continues to grow and add users.”

Chain.io was formed in early 2017 in Philadelphia. The company’s principals previously held C-level positions across the supply chain spectrum at companies focused on freight forwarding and customs brokerage, warehousing and 3PL management, and warehouse, transportation and customs software development.