Glossary
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)
Tags: Glossary
Inter-company computer-to-computer transmission of business information in a standard format. For EDI purists, 'computer-to-computer' means direct transmission from the originating application program to the receiving or processing application program. An EDI transmission consists only of business data, not any accompanying verbiage or free-form messages. Purists might also contend that a standard format is one that is approved by a national or international standards organization, as opposed to formats developed by industry groups or companies.
What is Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)?
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) is a method of exchanging business information between different companies using computers. It involves the direct transmission of data from one application program to another, without the need for human intervention. This allows for efficient and accurate communication between trading partners.
In its purest form, EDI involves the transmission of only business data, without any additional text or free-form messages. This ensures that the information exchanged is concise and standardized. EDI purists also argue that a standard format should be approved by a national or international standards organization, rather than being developed by industry groups or individual companies.
The main advantage of using EDI is the elimination of manual data entry and the associated errors. By automating the exchange of information, companies can reduce processing time, improve accuracy, and streamline their operations. EDI also enables real-time communication, allowing for faster decision-making and response times.
EDI can be used for various types of business transactions, such as purchase orders, invoices, shipping notices, and payment confirmations. It supports the exchange of structured data in a standardized format, making it easier for different systems to understand and process the information.
Implementing EDI requires companies to establish a common set of standards and protocols for data exchange. This involves mapping their internal data formats to the agreed-upon EDI standards. Additionally, companies need to set up secure communication channels to protect the confidentiality and integrity of the transmitted data.
Overall, EDI is a powerful tool for improving efficiency and collaboration in logistics and supply chain management. It enables seamless communication between trading partners, reduces manual effort, and enhances data accuracy. As technology continues to advance, EDI is evolving to support new communication methods, such as web-based interfaces and cloud-based platforms, further enhancing its capabilities.