The analysis emphatically confirmed that the automation of the processes mentioned shows great optimisation potential. In traditional processes, there were errors
resulting from manual data processing and the lack of standardised forms of communication. This all added up to longer order processing times due to, for example, missing order numbers, poor fax quality or generally poor data quality. This resulted in the need for additional telephone contact with the ordering party.
Solution
In order to meet the requirements of automotive concerns (OEMs), GKN Driveline Polska chose EDISON S.A. to implement EDI communication. It was necessary to set up an automatic exchange of DELFOR (order forecast), DELJIT (delivery schedule) and ASN (delivery advice) messages. Before communication could begin, connections had to be established based on the OFTP2 protocol - the most commonly used among automotive concerns. Over the years, EDISON S.A.'s many years of experience in the automotive industry have enabled it to tailor the connection configuration to the requirements of all OEMs. Once the connections were established, JIT (just in time) communication tests were carried out, and finally EDI communication was launched in the production environment. The automatic processing of DELFOR, DELJI and ASN messages dramatically accelerated the handling processes.
Results
EDISON S.A., drawing on its many years of experience with the automotive industry, helped GKN Driveline to quickly and seamlessly launch automated EDI communication with automotive concerns (OEMs). Process automation eliminated errors and significantly increased data quality, resulting in significant savings. The time required for service was reduced from 499h to 32h on a monthly basis and from 33.5 minutes to 2.2 minutes translating into 1 order. Time savings also include the availability of qualified staff for other tasks.
Extension of the EDI project
The professionalism and high competence of the Edison implementation team led to GKN Driveline Polska deciding, after several years, to expand the EDI project to include the channel of its local suppliers, aiming to fully optimise its production processes.
Currently, the project with suppliers includes messages: DELFOR, DELJIT and ASN. The standard and format of the messages were chosen by GKN. It is Edison's responsibility to ensure that the messages are translated to the agreed standards.
GKN is a classic example of a company that started its EDI adventure by fulfilling the requirements of its customers (OEM - FORD) and used the experience gained to automate communication with suppliers.
"EDISON S.A. carries out projects for us that effectively support the process of optimising production. In the course of our long-standing cooperation, EDISON S.A. has become known as a company with a highly qualified and committed team of employees, thanks to which communication between us is at a high level, and emerging new needs in the field of EDI services are implemented effectively and smoothly. We are pleased to recommend EDISON S.A. as a credible and reliable EDI service provider." - Justyna Kołodziejska-Kwiecień Procurement Director GKN Driveline Polska
