EDI stands for Electronic Data Interchange, structuring the electronic exchange of key business documents from vendor to supplier and trading partner. All supply chain participants need to communicate data, and traditional EDI systems have been available for a long time.
When it came to manual B2B communications, including email and fax, Cloud-based EDI was a huge advance. It is possible to send thousands of common business documents automatically and directly between systems, for example, from a supplier’s internal system to a seller’s system.
What are Cloud EDI solutions?
Web-based EDI, also known as Cloud-based EDI is an EDI system that uses the cloud as opposed to internal data servers. To use Cloud-based EDI, businesses require:
- An EDI solutions provider: Businesses must work with EDI service providers to use EDI in the cloud. The servers and network required to run web-based EDI as well as IT support to guarantee seamless message flow are provided by an EDI provider.
- Web-based EDI Translator: An online EDI translator is used by businesses to prepare EDI transactions under their demands.
- A network: Secure networks for sending and receiving EDI transactions are necessary for web-based EDI solutions. Value Added Networks (VANs) and Single Channel Networks are two types of networks used for EDI transactions. However, Single Channel Networks make it challenging to extend across many sales channels, and VANs necessitate human document processing.
The Key Benefits of Cloud-Based EDI Solutions
Let’s examine the many benefits of cloud-based EDI systems in more detail.
Scalability: Managing Business Expansion
Cloud-based EDI migration offers flexibility for scaling, eliminating hardware, software licensing, and IT staff costs associated with on-premise EDI, allowing for flexible operation adjustments to meet company needs.
Availability: Everywhere, at Any Time Interaction
Cloud-based EDI software offers greater accessibility compared to on-premise options, allowing authorized users to securely access services from any location with an internet connection.
Streamlined Partner Connectivity for Collaboration
EDI services that are hosted on the cloud enable smooth communication and cooperation with trading partners. Custom configurations and individual connections for every trading partner are common requirements for traditional on-premise EDI, which adds complexity and demands time-consuming maintenance.
Savings: Lower Maintenance and Infrastructure
On-premise EDI infrastructure implementation and upkeep can be costly. It necessitates large upfront expenditures for IT resources, software licenses, and hardware. Furthermore, continuous upkeep, enhancements, and assistance amplify the overall cost of ownership.
Strong Protection and Data Governance for Security and Compliance
EDI deployments require security and compliance measures, including firewalls, access limits, and data encryption, monitored by professional teams to protect sensitive information from potential threats.
Why are businesses using cloud-based EDI solutions?
Companies are adopting cloud EDI due to its affordability, scalability, and versatility, making it an easier transition for large companies dealing with multiple systems and trading partners, as well as avoiding traditional EDI's drawbacks.
The Future of EDI – The Role of Cloud-Based EDI
EDI cloud solutions are gaining popularity due to affordability, scalability, and accessibility. They enable e-commerce companies to easily scale operations and access data from any location, enhancing operational continuity and enabling remote work for increased order volumes.
Conclusion
Cloud-based EDI offers businesses scalability, accessibility, cost savings, security, and collaboration, enhancing partner connectivity and flexibility in a rapidly changing business environment.
For more details: https://www.a3logics.com/blog/advantages-of-cloud-based-edi-solutions/
