What is EDI mapping?

EDI mapping is a basic process that allows data transfer into a much simpler format which is easily used in new environments. With the help of EDI mapping, you can translate EDI messages into different ASCII formats like flat-file, XML and much more. In layman’s language, the EDI mapping process is basically a description of how to convert information between two unique, company specific data format and a standardized, industry-wide EDI format.

First of all, the outbound processing converts the in-house file format to EDI format so that you can send it to other partners. Then the inbound processing converts the formatted file in EDI format into in-house file format.

There are basically three steps: One, you will have to prepare the documents, then transfer the documents into EDI format and finally transmit the EDI documents to your partner.

Steps involved in mapping factory

• Collection of all existing maps
• Consult the ERP subject matter expert in order to define and capture ERP definition files for EDI mapping service.
• Construct new map matrices which will define EDI requirements and then match them with the new layout of EDI.
• Go through unit test for all maps
• Connecting trading partner workflow to map flows
• Go through the basic setup of maps
• Get in touch with all the trading partners to communicate testing plans
• Test, place in production
• Finally, follow up support of all maps and EDI data flows.

What are the advantages of mapping EDI?

Integration and automation are critical to eliminating manual processes.  When you eliminate manual processes, errors and exceptions go away.  One of the main processes involved in the EDI mapping is the creation of a file which is then used to convert one form of data into another form. This map can be generated with the help of special applications which are specially designed to get the process done. With the help of EDI mapping, any business can capitalize on all the investments that have been put in constructing the EDI infrastructure. Along with this, the mapping also makes sure that the EDI data is automatically sent to different systems like an accounting solution or ERP. In addition to this, the EDI mapping can also be used to build XML like formats which can be used by business partners, while keeping the investment on the infrastructure.

The first and the most original form of mapping involved the use of tailored in-house software that built a link between EDI and in-house ERP or accounting system. But this highly expensive and complicated process became the major reason for the development of EDI mapping software which proved to be economical and easy.

How to choose the best EDI mapping service?

If you want the best EDI mapping service then all you have to do is to just search for EDI mapping service on a search engine and you will get a long list of websites offering this service. You should never forget to check the reviews and rating of these websites in order to choose the best. And before making your final decision, you should make a pool of some of the best EDI mapping service providers and then pick the best one out of them based on your need and requirement.

One cannot deny the pace in which the world is moving. This has also enhanced the pace of competition between businesses to stay ahead of each other. The technology herein has played an integral role in sorting the working process for big companies and organizations, thereby making the task more integrated and refined. Its uses are far-reaching and offers the best solution when it comes to keeping the crowd aware of the information.

Here in this article, we show an in-detail outlook of the history of EDI in transportation, what does it mean and more importantly how it works. 

A brief sneak peek into EDI

Before we begin with elucidating about EDI in transportation transactions, lets first revise our understanding of what is EDI i.e., Electronic Data Interchange. 

In simple terms, EDI is the process of carrying out a computer to computer exchange of documents and information related to businesses using a standard electronic format. Developed back during the 1960s, the primary objective of this technology was to speed the transportation and shipping of documents. In the case of the transportation industry, there happens to be a constant movement of goods from one place to another. 

This makes it an important aspect of our economy. And hence, herein involving EDI in transportation transactions deemed extremely important. This thereby gave rise to the first EDI technique used in the transportation and logistics industry. We at Data Integration Specialists offer assistance in carrying out EDI in transportation transactions backed by our team of efficient specialists.

How does EDI work in the transportation business?

To begin with, the primary requirement of EDI was to replace postal mail, email, and fax with a well-defined technology. Even though email is also counted as an electronic transaction, the documents that are exchanged through email still require manual handling. However, in the case of EDI, one can straightaway flow through the appropriate application on the receiver’s system and can directly begin with the process immediately without waiting for human intervention.

No more need to use lots and lots of paper

While a normal manual process would include a lot of paperwork. In the case of EDI in transportation, it enables a swiffer process without the need for human involvement. Thus, there is the least chance of forgetting to get a transaction processed and the EDI will ensure it happens without any delay.

Ways in which the EDI in transportation transaction method work

There are three conventional methods used for carrying out EDI in transportation which includes:

• Transaction of Business Documents

These include documents or data that are exchanged between businesses and deem to be more confidential. The most commonly exchanged documents through EDI include invoices, advance ship notices, and purchase orders. Other essential documents that are necessary for the process include customs documents, inventories, shipping status details, payment orders and bill of lading.

• Following a standardized format

Since EDI documents are processed solely through computers without any manual intervention, it also requires the use of the standard format. This format makes it easy for the computer to read and understand what the document implies to convey. It describes what the information is, in which format, etc.

We at Data Integration Specialist aid in developing company-specific formats that are easy to read and exchange information. We ensure to provide the perfect EDI for data integration, which transmits your information in time no matter which time zone you are working in.

So, if you are looking out for a medium that can offer the perfect EDI solution to streamlining your transport business activities, then give Data Integration Specialists a call at 612-840-6753 or email EDIhelp@dis-llc.com

You will be surprised to know that it costs 25 more times to acquire a new customer than to retain an existing one. This is why more and more businesses are now focusing on increasing customer satisfaction and EDI for small business is the key, but not everyone is getting success in this field.  Upon implementing EDI for small business, improving customer satisfaction might sound very easy, but it is one of the most complicated things in the industry and that’s why only a handful of businesses can achieve it. Well, for giant businesses, as opposed to implementing EDI for small business, there are lots of options for working on customer satisfaction, then EDI solutions look like the best option.

Electronic Data Interchange is basically the computer to computer transfer of business documents in a standard electronic format. EDI has slowly become one of the most popular and admired data exchange medium as it offers many advantages. Customer satisfaction is one of the most important reasons why businesses have started moving to Electronic Data Interchange. But still, many businesses agonize that abandoning the paper-based data exchange format and pouring money for shifting to the electronic format is a good decision or not.

Why is the manual process not effective for keeping customers satisfied?

If you look at the cost involved in rectifying the errors and redoing everything related to data exchange because of manual data transfer, then the price of shifting to EDI will start looking worthwhile. Processing manual orders are applicable for your business only when you are dealing with two or three orders a week. But, when you start getting hundreds to thousands order a week, then keeping your customers satisfied through the manual process, will become very complicated. This is why EDI software for small business is the best option.

How can EDI help you in improving customer satisfaction?

The three main things that customers want from your business are a good product, economical price, and timely delivery. If you fail to give products to customers where they want and when they want, then the chances of your success will start shrinking. EDI solutions can act as a foundation for giving your customers what they want from your business. With the help of EDI, you will be able to increase the accuracy of your orders and boost the speed of the payment process. In addition to this, you will also be able to bridge the communication gap between your business and your customers. By improving communication, you will be able to keep your customers in the loop and let them know where their product is in the supply chain.

According to the Harvard Business Review, if a business succeeds in eliminating the human touchpoint necessary for human interaction then, it will be able to increase loyalty and satisfaction by many folds. All this will lead to increased profit and since customer satisfaction is directly linked to the overall growth of a business, your chances of success will increase

In the current era, EDI can give you a competitive as you will be able to keep your customers satisfied without putting much effort. By continuously providing a positive experience to your customer, you will also enhance your trustworthiness and reliability among the customers and that’s why EDI becomes more important for you. Businesses working with satisfied customers can earn 6% more profit that those businesses that don’t have a satisfied customer base.

With more effective, reliable, quick and accurate digital trading capabilities, you will be able to build a close relationship with your customers and thus, you will be able to increase your profit margin as well. So, just choose the right EDI software for small business and use it as a foundation for increasing customer satisfaction.

The dependence of businesses on software solutions has increased a lot during the past few decades. From pen and paper to software solutions, businesses have covered a very long journey of technological advancement. Whether a business is looking to communicate, acquire a business, or handle customer relationship – software solutions are being used in every part of the business. But with so many software solutions to manage, sometimes it becomes quite tricky for businesses to handle all the software solutions at one go. This is where Enterprise Application Integration becomes necessary.

The Enterprise Application Integration (EAI) helps organizations to bridge the gap between the different systems being used by the organization. By bridging the gap, the organization can maintain a smooth data flow and work on an interface that will provide information exchange from one program to another. So, in this blog post, we will go through the different advantages of Enterprise Application Integration for businesses and understand why organizations are adopting it.

Flow of information

One of the biggest advantages offered by EAI is that it allows the exchange of information from one software solution to another. But you might be thinking that this exchange of information must be happening between the software systems that are within the company, but that’s not true. Through EAI, you can exchange information between software solution connected to the company and those that are working externally or from outside. The exchange of information through EAI minimizes data redundancy, and you are also able to minimize the time spent in data searching. Employees can get all the data they need from a single point.

Reduced cost and investment

It has also been observed that most of the companies shifting to EAI have been able to reduce cost and minimize investment. One of the examples of how businesses are reducing investment by adopting EAI is the integration of the old and new software. Before using EAI, businesses were having no other option than deleting the former to shift to the new one, and this increased the overall investment. But through EAI, there was no need to delete the former one which meant fewer investments.

With the integration of business applications through EAI, new services and products can be easily implemented both externally and internally. This helps the business to save money in the long run.

Simplified process

In most of the organizations, employees find it very difficult to work on a completely new IT infrastructure and that leads to a steeper learning curve. In addition to this, there is no guarantee that the new application will work perfectly within the system. EAI simplifies this type of complexities which is faced by organizations regularly. Enterprise integration tool combines both the functionality and information of different software systems into a single user interface which is quite easy to use. This aids in simplifying the business operation.

Increased efficiency

Enhanced efficiency is what every business strives for but not everyone is able to get it. Enhanced efficiency is directly related to the productivity and revenue of the company. This is why it plays a vital role. Enterprise Application Integration tool helps businesses to enhance their efficiency by reducing time in the effort, improving functionality, providing and providing control. Many businesses that have adopted Enterprise Application Integration have reported an increase in revenue and improvement in their overall business workflow.

Having a single user interface for managing the entire data flow of the company is very necessary and this is what EAI offers to your business. You will just need to choose an EAI tool that will fit like a glove in your business and you will be ready to work in a seamless and collaborative environment.

EDI or Electronic Data Interchange offers electronic replacement solutions for paper-based purchase orders and other business documents. Today, EDI software and services are becoming an integral part of any business as it lowers its operating cost, improves efficiency, accuracy, and speed.  

Adopting cost-effective EDI solutions from credible companies like Data Integration Specialists are already proving their worth to any business at the strategic level. To understand further, let us throw light on the benefits accrued by even small businesses which help them shore up their bottom line.  

• Cost Savings  

There is a famous adage, “A penny saved is a penny earned.’’ This holds true for most businesses, especially any small and startup company that is perpetually facing financial crunch issues. EDI solutions can save about 35% off any business cost that is attributed to paper, printing and reproduction, postage, filing, storage, document retrieval, etc. Moreover, it eliminates all data errors and other losses due to illegible entries, faxes, etc.; lost orders, incorrect entries, and all other human errors. You can invest your valuable money on other channels to help your business flourish.

• Business efficiency  

All businesses work towards increasing their efficiency and eliminating waste at all levels. Seeking services of remote EDI Managed Services from authentic providers helps enhance your business efficiency. Automating paper-based tasks leads to faster and more accurate processing of business documents. It frees your staff to be more productive by focusing on other higher-value tasks. Automation of business-critical data ensures timely delivery as well as real-time tracking. This improves the cash flow as well as reduces the order-to-cash cycles. Furthermore, a shorter order processing and delivery times lead to a reduced inventory level. Cumulatively, it leads to better business competence.

• Collective productivity 

Implementation of EDI solutions equips any business to use far fewer human resources for expanded operations. EDI automates the entire process to complete all tasks from registering to balancing validation in just a matter of seconds. Thus, the productivity of your company climbs notches higher with ease.

• Agility  

Agility is our ability to move quickly and safely when threatened. The same holds true for any business. Tough competition, new industry trends, technological advancements, and various other similar curveballs keep threatening your business at every nook and corner. EDI software and solutions give you real-time insight into transactions early. You and your team can easily access and process this information and take important decisions long before your competitors do. It gives you a streamlined passage to move faster and let your business remain in the limelight.  

• New Product Delivery 

Expanding into new markets is the backbone of survival for any business. But this often makes tweaking your old product or creating a new product, a necessity. The task is made easier by using real-time data and quick turnaround facilitated by EDI solutions. It gives your company a competitive advantage in new markets and helps them establish better.

• Better security  

Online might be the easier and faster method of transaction but no one can deny the threat it faces as far as security breaches are concerned. But EDI provides that extra layer of security to your business and reducing your supply chain risks by allocating data across a more extensive variation of safety standards and communicating protocols. You can conduct trading with a seamless flow of data and better accessibility to technology. This not only strengthens your relations with your current clients but also helps you break new grounds.

• Eco-friendly 

No business can afford to skip on the eco-friendly wave. Going green is not only fashionable today but a keen global responsibility to be executed by any business brand. EDI solutions do just that. They reduce waste and carbon footprint from your company.

Wrapping up 

With the increase of digitalization in business, electronic data interchange solutions are becoming a standard requirement. Data Integration Specialists offer you secure and versatile solutions of international format and standards that are always compliant to your needs, budget, and expectations. Get in touch with us to help us take your business to the next level.