There are many compelling reasons to have EDI system integration with internal business applications.
EDI integration improves processing and visibility for all organisations, whether they’re a retailer, manufacturer, or supply chain partner.
A full EDI system integration, with existing business applications, helps achieve cost savings, faster processing and greater accuracy. Complete EDI integration also provides organisations with a full overview of supply chain data.
EDI cloud-based integration
Use our eDI Freedom calculator to build a cloud-based EDI solution to your specifications, with frictionless integration into your business systems.
However, too often internal systems fail to integrate effectively, which is why it is vital to choose an EDI integration partner that can deliver a frictionless integration, regardless of your existing systems.
In this blog, you will learn: what is EDI integration, the EDI integration process, and the key benefits for business.
What is EDI integration?
The term EDI integration refers to the direct feed of EDI data into applications and systems across the organisation. Typically, this would be the integration of supply chain messages such as orders, invoices and ASNs into an ERP or accounting application.
There are multiple different ways to configure an EDI integration solution. These are the three main ways:
- One-to-one connection (direct mapping of data fields)
- API
- Integration layer
The EDI integration process
There are two stages involved in implementing EDI system integration for efficient workflows and communication:
The first…
is to identify the message types, transactions and EDI protocols required for data exchange.
The second…
is to translate your EDI data into a format suitable for the required business systems.
EDI protocol: AS2 integration
For a frictionless integration process, it is vital to ensure your EDI protocol conforms to an accepted communication model, such as AS2.
AS2 stands for Applicability Statement 2. It is one of the most widely used EDI protocols across business industries today.
What is AS2?
AS2 is an encrypted EDI protocol. It is HTTP based and is focused on transmitting EDI messages in a secure, efficient and cost-effective way.
AS2 vs VAN
AS2 avoids the risks associated with an outdated approach known as VAN (Value-Added Network).
Under VAN, you pay a charge for every transaction or data character you send, meaning you can easily incur hefty penalties for going over a set limit.
Mapping and testing an EDI system integration
Before choosing an EDI solution, therefore, it’s important to analyse and map the current processes. This will help you fully understand the scope of the message requirements.
Once the integration connection type and protocol are decided, the EDI messages will need to be mapped and tested across the EDI integration. The goal is to ensure the EDI file formats are supported so the internal systems can validate them.
Mapping is the process of transferring data from one format to another. It can be time-consuming when this process is managed internally. However, an EDI provider removes this hassle by automatically mapping the data output from the source file into the relevant EDI format.
It is then essential to test the integration to ensure it fulfils the requirement. The EDI integration provider should enable self-service testing.
Once these phases are complete, a go-live date needs to be set so you can begin to exchange data as soon as practicable.
EDI integration solutions from Transalis
Beauty product brand Space NK is a prime example of a company that has achieved successful EDI integration.
Chris Wakeham, Global IT Director, says:
“From a technical standpoint, EDI can be a scary prospect with regard to integration into your systems if you haven’t previously used it.
“There is a perception that it’s expensive and technical and you will be ‘locked in’ by your EDI provider.
“In reality, that’s all from the old days of EDI. The world has changed and EDI is now much more cost-effective and far easier to implement.
“You no longer need specialist skills because the supplier can handle all of this for you.”
Complete EDI integration
Transalis eDI™ can integrate directly with your ERP, WMS, OMS, eCommerce platform and back-office accounting. This gives complete and immediate data visibility across internal systems, whilst removing blockers that hinder the oversight of business operations. Therefore, integration is ideal for:
- Identifying potential cost savings
- Discovering supply chain inefficiencies
- Reporting on the performance of the supplier network
Successful EDI integration enables the automation of B2B workflows. It acts as a complementary asset along with existing systems for ERP and eCommerce.
eDI Instant
As simple as 1,2,3. Buy EDI online in an instant and connect with your trading partner today
eDI Freedom
Build your own bespoke EDI solution according to your supply chain & integration needs
eDI Connect
Ideal for companies with many trading partners, high order volumes, requiring enhanced stock & sales reporting
eDI Connect+
Perfect for larger organisations requiring complete visibility across their supply chain to improve efficiencies
Discover our EDI solutions. You can also talk to us about seamless EDI integration on 0845 123 3746 or +44 1978 369 343 (for international callers), reach our Customer Success team via email sales@transalis.com
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