Getting Started
A successful EDI program begins with education. Fortunately, there is a wealth of information available: periodicals, commercially available training programs, EDI conferences and trade shows, software and network suppliers, and – perhaps best of all – the sharing of experience by companies already participating in EDI.
As with any new program, securing top management support is important. First, EDI does require a modest up-front investment. More importantly, achieving the full potential of EDI requires inter-departmental coordination and a fresh look at many current business processes.
Additional steps in implementing EDI include:
- Software development/purchase
- Communications development/purchase
- Identification of a trading partner base
- Mapping of transaction sets
- Testing with trading partners
- Internal training