How frictionless EDI integration can transform your business

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

There are two stages involved in implementing EDI system integration for efficient workflows and communication:

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.

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AS2 avoids the risks associated with an outdated approach known as VAN (Value-Added Network).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.

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.