EDI Migration: Efforts Evaluation And Steps To Be Made
EDI migration usually is influenced by some factors or events that show Electronic Data Interchange becomes essential for one’s company. The initiative can be internal (from managers or departments) or external (new or existing business partners). The examples of EDI initiatives:
- New trading partner requirements
- New EDI compliance requirements
- Business growth
- Process automation
- Cost reduction
- Operating pressures (competitors)
The first step that is usually made for EDI migration is common EDI evaluation. The factors and opportunities mentioned above can and should raise awareness to evaluate alternative solutions. Many EDI products and innovations offer leading benefits and can give your company an opportunity to improve your operations. How seamless the migration process will be when switching to a new EDI solution is a concern that often arises. The reliable provider will help you be fully confident in a seamless EDI migration process. The process of EDI integration must be efficient with the full support of the EDI experts from the provider’s team.
The main goal of the successful EDI deployment is to create a seamless operation workflow between the customer and its trading partners as well as inside the company. EDI integration refers also to the company’s entire systems and departments – applications for supply, logistics, warehousing, accounts payable. EDI deployment within the company makes critical processes more visible. Data flow becomes more efficient and accurate and this, therefore, enables better decision making and responsiveness.
If you are seriously thinking about shifting your business to EDI, you should consult with specialists from EDI field or hire a provider that will make EDI integration easy and painless. It is better when EDI provider has successful examples of EDI implementation in your industry and can offer you various solutions depending on your goals and budget. Usually the process starts by developing an integration plan based on your unique business processes, and then the provider deploys an integrated solution that’s right for your business. Integrations can be handled through a number of methods, including Web Service, XML, and direct ODBC queries into staging tables, CSV or flat files.