VICS EDI Communication Methods: Internet Connection and VANs
Internet tools may be used by companies to facilitate EDI. Exchanging business information via the Internet is currently most commonly accomplished through the use of forms-based EDI or email attachments.
Email Attachment Method
The Internet can be used to transmit standard EDI transactions as email message attachments. Unlike forms-based EDI, this method assumes both partners have computer systems able to receive and process standard, EDI file attachments.
The primary benefit of this method is reduced EDI transmission costs, as transmission via a VAN is replaced by the use of email. The Uniform Code Council has adopted standards for transmitting EDI transactions as email attachments. To use the email attachment method, both trading partners require translation software, data recovery methods, compatible encryption technology, and a secure method of data transport (SMTP protocol).
A basic transaction cycle using EDI sent as an email attachment:
1. The sending trading partner encrypts a standard, EDI transaction set and sends the data to its trading partner as an email attachment.
2. The receiving trading partner receives and decrypts the email attachment.
3. The decrypted data is then fed into and processed by a standard EDI translator program.
Communications Using VANs
Companies may select a third-party VAN, as shown in Cases 3 and 4, for various reasons:
- Accelerate initiation of VICS EDI
- Minimize in-house equipment and personnel costs
- Effectively control the timing of transmissions
- Take advantage of additional services provided by a third-party VAN
Services provided by VANs might include translation within the network, archiving and retrieving of data, time-based transmissions to lower costs, summary tracking reports, and carbon copy facilities to send data to multiple destinations. Alternatively, companies may decide to communicate directly for cost, timing, and control reasons.
The Uniform Code Council, Inc. (UCC) maintains a directory of third-party VANs and service providers for companies doing business in a VICS EDI standards-based environment. This directory and other related documents are available from the UCC and are listed in the Appendix under “Key Supporting Documents.”
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