Outsourcing with an EDI Service Bureau

When you need to outsource your EDI implementation, one of the better options is to use an EDI Service Bureau. Here are some of the features:

Translation and mapping of data

Organizations start using EDI to improve transactions with their suppliers and partners. In some situations, they do so because the partners insist on transactions using EDI. The EDI service bureau translates and maps the data to a format compatible with your existing applications. The system will map and translate outbound data to a format that your partners will accept. A bureau handles all of the data, label requirements, etc. your direct involvement will be minimal.

Format conversion

Once you sign up with a service bureau, the services are not limited to EDI communications. The bureau will translate and convert formats from one to another according to your requirements. Some web applications output XML data; the service will then translate this data into something that your applications will understand.

Transport

There are several methods of actually transporting the EDI data. When sending data to your company, the bureau will use a protocol agreed beforehand and will use the preferred format when sending to your trading partner.

VANS

A VAN is a Value Added Network. Some organizations use a third party VAN to store EDI communications that the service bureau will pick up. There are service bureau’s that operate their own VAN, which will interconnect with the VAN of your trading partners.