EDI is short for Electronic Date Interchange. EDI is the transferring of documents from between businesses from one computer to another. With EDI, a standard way to format the date being transmitted was created which makes it easier to transfer the information between companies. With EDI services, these transmissions are made easier.
In addition to standard formats, there are also rules that govern the way the data is transmitted. There are two different types of protocols which has created a need for translation between the two. There are companies that provide Value Added Networks, also known as VAN, to translate messages between the two protocols.
The sender will transmit the message to the value added network which then sends it to the intended recipient. As they do so, they will translate the documents if it is needed. VANs provide other related services as well.
Value added networks have been a very common way for EDI to be sent. However, now the messages can be sent via a Web browser. Now sending your messages is as easy as sending emails. You do not need additional software. It can be accessed from wherever you are and the receipt is just as simple.
A lot of companies offer Web based EDI services. They will handle any interface setting up that needs to be done and get you started with your communication to clients and any other businesses you need to transmit documents to. Different services can be provided depending on the needs of clients and the size of their businesses.
Some services provided are fairly simple such as shipping, ordering and billing. There can be more advanced solutions as well, for example more accounting services can be provided. If your company is already set up for translating your documents internally and you just need a vehicle for transmitting with a VAN, this can be done online as well.
Using Internet based EDI services allows companies to start using EDI without having to make a large investment. This is especially important as often those expensive solutions are more than the company needs or still do not adequately answer their needs. Web EDI is transforming the way EDI is done.
Services can be provided to help an EDI using company to work with one that does not. This is a big help as you can use the same method for handling your transactions with all your customers and without losing information. Now it is not just large businesses that can take advantage of EDI communication. Every company can benefit from less paper shuffling and quicker information access.
There are many EDI standards to understand and using a professional source could give you the competitive edge you need. We’ve got the ultimate inside scoop now on EDI Services and EDI Solutions.