Scaling Critical Infrastructure While Reducing Resource Consumption Using AWS with Portbase

Real-Time Shipping Data in Global Crises

Portbase’s success is built on its broad portfolio of applications and data services that enable data exchange between companies in core port processes and its ability to quickly adapt when a crisis happens. If disruption occurs, it can keep its transport and logistics network up to date and navigate problems that could harm its business. Whatever the issue—the 2021 Suez Canal blockade, backlogs caused by international sanctions, or the COVID-19 pandemic—Portbase can react quickly by spinning up data dashboards that keep its community informed in uncertain times.

Portbase achieves this by running its critical applications on Amazon Web Services (AWS). Since gradually migrating all of its on-premises business data to the cloud in 2018, its now serverless platform is powered by a secure, cloud-native architecture that can automatically scale on demand. Built using multiple services, the platform now serves more than 6,000 organizations with 26,000 users in the global import and export network, making Portbase the biggest port network in Europe.

Agility is critical for Portbase. And it’s part of the reason the business migrated its operations to the cloud. Now, its developers can update the platform as frequently as they want and respond to emerging issues and opportunities. Using AWS means the company’s in-house developer teams can take ownership of their own product and quickly deliver user-validated, customized solutions to users—from shipping firms to public bodies and customs officials.

A Single Source of Truth for Ships and Cargo

Today, Portbase is regarded as a trusted and critical part of the shipping industry. “People come to us for a single source of truth for vessel updates at each stage of their journey,” says Melvyn de Kort, cloud developer advocate at Portbase.

Since data is such a critical part of the port operations of so many companies, it’s essential that not only availability but also security be an integral part of services offered by Portbase. Since its inception, Portbase has built its data strategy on robust security measures, and it has enhanced its security expertise using AWS. Its cloud environment meets the highest security standards required to operate. "We have complete control of our environment, and visibility, makes it as secure as possible” says Marten van der Velde, strategy and innovation manager at Portbase. “The AWS team keeps us informed of the latest developments in the security industry. Working together with the port stakeholder network, we do as much as possible to protect everything that passes through our ports.”

Innovating for Ports of the Future

Portbase is continuously adding data sharing capabilities to its cloud-operated platform so that data owners can also share their data safely, securely, and on their own terms with other solution providers as well. “We want to facilitate as much innovation as we can within our cloud,” says Marten van der Velde. “Together with our community and by using AWS, we are unlocking the potential of data to facilitate a seamless, secure, and sustainable flow of goods.”