Implementing Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) simplifies and automates numerous business processes within your company. To ensure a smooth start, there are several important points to consider. In this article, we answer the six most common questions that arise during EDI integration and provide an overview of the entire process—from selecting the right solution for your company to successfully going live.
1. What initial steps are important for a successful EDI integration?
First, you should analyze your business processes together with your consultant. This involves clarifying which processes should be supported by EDI, how many business documents will be exchanged, and whether inventory management or ERP systems with data interfaces already exist or are in use. When collaborating with multiple business partners, it's advisable to use a so-called "EDI framework agreement" in which the organizational parameters are documented.
2. Which EDI solution suits my company
The choice of the right EDI solution depends on your company's size, technical infrastructure, and the current or anticipated volume of documents. Small and medium-sized enterprises with fewer documents ideally use a web EDI portal, while larger companies or those with a high document volume prefer integration into their ERP system. To find the right solution for your company, EDITEL offers a no-obligation consultation.
3. What is eXite® and what can I use it for?
eXite® is a state-of-the-art B2B eBusiness platform that connects more than 100,000 companies worldwide. It enables efficient and secure Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) between business partners and offers a multitude of additional services. In addition to EDI communication, eXite® features an integrated archiving function and supports in-house monitoring, which allows for comprehensive control and traceability of transactions.
4. Why is synchronizing master data with my business partners important?
At the start of an EDI project, it is crucial for both partners to use the same master data, such as product codes/GTINs and partner identifications/GLNs. It is essential that both partners operate from the same data set (article numbers, descriptions, etc.). This prevents errors and ensures a seamless data exchange.
5. How can I ensure that my EDI messages are correct?
Before initiating the electronic data exchange, initial messages should be sent to verify syntactic correctness. After successful verification, a testing phase follows where the EDI communication and processing of messages with the business partner are tested.
6. When can I start live operation with EDI?
After successfully completing the test phase, there's nothing standing in the way of live operation with your business partners. Electronic data exchange can now officially begin. Additionally, as your business activities expand, you can integrate further partners at any time.
