We are planning to set up a complete ERP and CRM system for a medium-sized global company, that might turn into a essential tool for all locations once deployed. For now these locations include USA, Germany, China and Indonesia, but the list is growing quickly.

My question is, where it is best to physically locate the server to ensure the access times are optimal from all (future) locations?

On my mind, I am dealing with multiple connected servers (a cloud?), where each of our users is served by the physically closest server. Being in a very competitive field we would also like to rule out, that any data is stored in mainland China...

Thanks for any advice and pointers!