An efficient supply chain management system is essential for adequate automation and streamlining of distribution tasks. One such solution promoting automation and enhance efficiency is Electronic Data Interchange. It is transferring data from one computer to another utilizing standardized message formatting, relying on internet connectivity, either through peer-to-peer networking or serial links. Documents can be electronically exchanged between multiple companies both in the US and abroad.
It is essential to make a sound decision when selecting an EDI provider since a slight miscalculation and wrong choice could lead to poor supplier scores, inability to forge a long-lasting relationship with clients or missing out on enormous business opportunities, etc.
MANAGED SERVICE
Depending upon the requirement, managed services differ across the board. Data Integration Specialists can provide a remote EDI expert to either complement your existing EDI resource or they can maintain the entire EDI system from their remote offices. DIS’ EDI Consultant will handle trading partner setups, connectivity to VANs/direct connects, automated scheduling, error handling, acknowledgment reconciliation, map fixes, map changes, new maps, map testing, unit testing and ongoing maintenance on a daily basis. They also provide Hybrid EDI Managed service that acts as an efficient alternative to remote administration. The Hybrid model combines both an on-site option (when needed) as well as a remote EDI expert.
FEATURES
An adept EDI service provider should be able to provide best solutions for your business needs. It should be simple, and the user must be able to work with it with little or no training, It should be quick and easy to implement making it more efficient and facilitating better trade relationships.
INTEGRATION
The solution should be able to integrate with your business systems irrespective of their technical capabilities, connection protocols, data formats and back-office systems. It should include a downstream system that delivers a seamless exchange of information to other operations.
TRANSPARENCY IN PRICING
Check if there is any hidden cost in the number of transactions made. There should be no additional cost for more transactions since that means you might end up paying more for cheap solutions. The EDI Managed Service maintains the health of your EDI business trading partner relationships at a cost model that IT management loves because it’s easy on their budgets.
CUSTOMER SERVICE
The EDI solution provider must have a flexible and available customer support team offering comprehensive, tailored solutions to business requirements. You should be able to rely on a team that is responsive and available to quickly diagnose any problem, determine a quick answer and implement it instantly.
REVIEW
EDI software can be an expensive investment so it’s critical that you have an experienced and proven EDI Consultant. Ask all solution providers to give you a name of their previous clients so that you can validate the level of customers satisfaction and quality of service.
EDI implementations, when done efficiently, can allow for effective business to business data interchange automation, especially for retail, manufacturing, distribution and healthcare. Considering its capability to integrate business processes and accelerate speed to market fully, its now increasingly becoming a prerequisite for large suppliers and businesses globally.