If you’re like some folks, you’ve probably heard of EDI but aren’t exactly sure what it is, what it does, or what benefit it can offer your company. In this article, we define EDI, evaluate the benefits of this technology, and take a quick peek at EDI solutions that work with Sage ERP.
What is EDI Anyway?
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) is the process of electronically exchanging data, or more specifically business documents, between companies. Business documents might include Orders, Invoices, Acknowledgments, and Advance Shipping Notice.
EDI transmissions generally contain the same information that would be included in the “paper” version of the document. It’s essentially an electronic conversation between two businesses … or more accurately, between two business systems. Companies that send or receive documents from each other are referred to as "trading partners" in EDI terminology.
EDI transmissions generally contain the same information that would be included in the “paper” version of the document. It’s essentially an electronic conversation between two businesses … or more accurately, between two business systems. Companies that send or receive documents from each other are referred to as "trading partners" in EDI terminology.
How Does EDI Work?
To explain how it works, we’ll use an example of a Purchase Order that has been processed in your system. Information from that Purchase Order is translated to a specific data format and submitted directly to your suppliers system via the internet.
In some cases, a Value Added Network (VAN) acts as an intermediary between you and your trading partner. In the most basic form, a VAN acts as a post office that receives transactions and routes them to the appropriate recipient. It’s like a clearinghouse that simplifies communication between trading partners (i.e. you and your vendor or customer) and ensures that the data exchanged is structured and standardized.
In some cases, a Value Added Network (VAN) acts as an intermediary between you and your trading partner. In the most basic form, a VAN acts as a post office that receives transactions and routes them to the appropriate recipient. It’s like a clearinghouse that simplifies communication between trading partners (i.e. you and your vendor or customer) and ensures that the data exchanged is structured and standardized.
What are the Bottom Line Benefits of EDI?
Primary benefits of EDI technology include accuracy and efficiency which can result in both direct and indirect cost savings.
Accuracy – errors are reduced because data is not being re-keyed into another system. Improved accuracy results in a host of benefits including elimination of excessive shipping charges and the cost of returns for incorrect orders.
Efficiency – electronic documents are delivered far more quickly than their paper-based counterparts resulting in faster order turn around, happier customers, and competitive advantage.
Direct and Indirect Benefits - EDI can reduce direct costs such as paper & forms, postage, printers & toner, and document storage. Indirect benefits can include reduced lead times, more frequent inventory turns, better use of warehouse space, and improved cash flow (faster delivery, faster invoice, more timely payment).
Accuracy – errors are reduced because data is not being re-keyed into another system. Improved accuracy results in a host of benefits including elimination of excessive shipping charges and the cost of returns for incorrect orders.
Efficiency – electronic documents are delivered far more quickly than their paper-based counterparts resulting in faster order turn around, happier customers, and competitive advantage.
Direct and Indirect Benefits - EDI can reduce direct costs such as paper & forms, postage, printers & toner, and document storage. Indirect benefits can include reduced lead times, more frequent inventory turns, better use of warehouse space, and improved cash flow (faster delivery, faster invoice, more timely payment).
EDI Solutions for Sage
There are several integrated EDI solutions that offer various features and price points depending on what Sage ERP system you’re running. Some of the more popular EDI applications in the world of Sage 100 (formerly MAS 90) and Sage 300 (formerly Accpac) include True Commerce EDI by HighJump, MAPADOC by SWK Technologies, SPS Commerce, RedTail EDI, and eBridge.
Talk To Your Sage Partner
To learn more about EDI solutions for Sage, talk to your Sage Authorized partner who knows your business and can recommend the best fit.
If you’re not currently working with a Sage partner, click below to find one in your area.
If you’re not currently working with a Sage partner, click below to find one in your area.
