EDI - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Use this FAQ resource to learn more about Electronic Data Interchange (EDI). If your questions are beyond what is provided here, please do not hesitate to browse the site further using the Search at the top of each page or feel free to call us a 1.800.755.6921.
1. What is EDI or Electronic Data Interchange?
3. Is implementing EDI difficult to do?
5. I do not see my trading partner listed?
6. What accounting packages does eBridge integrate with?
7. My trading partner is requesting I do EDI with them - why?
1. What is EDI or Electronic Data Interchange?
Electronic Data Interchange, or EDI, has been in use for decades - as early as the late 1960s. While there are many ways to perform EDI, there are preferred ways to implement EDI in a company. Your EDI solution should be driven by your company's business needs, not a specific technology.
In its most basic form, EDI is a computer to computer exchange, between two companies, of standard business documents in electronic format. There are two key elements in basic EDI. First, electronic documents replace paper based ones. Second, the exchange of documents takes place in a standardised format. Using these two basic concepts, any business can enter the world of EDI and begin taking advantage of the speed and economy of electronic commerce, or e-Commerce.
EDI is used in all major industries, such as health, retail, automotive, finance etc.
3. Is implementing EDI difficult to do?
EDI can be implemented almost immediately, depending on the type of EDI solution chosen. If it is a web-based solution hosted by your customer or client, then all you will need to do is log into their web portal and simply fill in the necessary online forms before sending the required documents. More complex systems will require software to be installed on your company’s network that will then allow integration with your back-office systems. An EDI system can be considered as an evolving solution. As your business grows and you begin trading with more partners, the complexity of your EDI system will grow as well.
No. eBridge Software handles each integration component whether it be with a trading partner, your accounting package, customer relationship management (CRM) or webstore (eCommerce) solution. eBridge is your one central place for all your integration needs.
5. I do not see my trading partner listed?
While eBridge has 15 years of experience building maps and connectors for over 2000 businesses including Home Depot, Lowes, National Grocer, Winn Dixie and more, there is the likelihood that you may not find your specific trading partner in our list. Our list of trading partner maps continues to grow each and every day - if your trading partner is not listed call us at 1.800.755.6921 to discuss your needs. Find your trading partner here.
6. What accounting packages does eBridge integrate with?
Currently eBridge supports the following small, medium and enterprise accounting systems:
- Sage MAS 90, 200, 500, Business One, Timerline, Pro, Peachtree, Simply Accounting and more;
- Microsoft Dynamics GP, SI, NAV, AX, Small Business Manager and more;
- Epicor Enterprise, Epicor Vantage, Epicor iScala, and more.
- Integration with over 35 financial software systems - find your accounting package here.
7. My trading partner is requesting I do EDI with them - why?
There are many reasons why a larger company would request or make a mandatory the need for exchanging business documents electronically. Here are just a couple reasons for such a request:
- invoices are sent out and in your partners hands in minutes not days;
- increase in cash flow (invoices are sent and received faster), improved inventory cycles;
- massive reduction in paper, postage and sorting activities - imagine the advantages this would bring for a Home Depot or Walmart.
- Click here to read a blog post on 'Why am I required to do EDI with my large trading partners?'
Yes. eBridge Software currently provides webstore or eCommerce integration solutions for eBay Stores, Yahoo, Amazon and StoreFront.net store fronts. If you are working with another webstore or eCommerce solution call us at 1.800.755.6921 to discuss your integration needs. Read more about preconfigured webstore solutions here.
If you are an eBay Store owner, and would like to integrate your purchase orders and sales receipts, get setup in minutes with our self-serve preconfigured integration software here. Click here to go to SalesAmigo.