Altova’s MapForce for EDI: Adds Power to XML and Cuts Cost

EDI Transaction Sets Available in Enterprise

Significant savings can occur when a specific instance of EDI is needed by using an XML tool with built-in EDI schemas. Products such as Altova’s MapForce 2008 Enterprise Edition® readily process single use messages such as inbound Sales/Inventory (X12 Transaction Set 852) or outbound Price/Catalog data (1SYNC). Find out more about Altova Mapforce™ here.

Now you can readily create a stand-alone instance of EDI for a specific purpose without disrupting your production EDI system. Additionally, the Altova display or data entry capability uses a Web Form or spreadsheet, technology with which most office professionals are familiar.

Set-up is quicker and more economical when you take advantage of our DCS specialists’ knowledge with Altova products and EDI processes. On-going improvements are also easier when DCS is there to assist when you need it. Let DCS help you with your transaction sets and other EDI needs. Ask us for your FREE assessment.

Using XML

Most EDI is X12 formats instead of the XML formats with which you are familiar. X12 is universally used due to very fine granularity of data definition and business codes exchanged. Since both are data and tag protocols the conceptual leap is not large; It is straight-forward, but not trivial. Altova has the solution: an XML tool with built-in X12 schemas for data validation to bridge the gap.

The benefit is lower cost of launch. However, MapForce creates only the EDI X12 map so these other components must also be built such as:

1. Field definition
2. Table structure
3. Business rule execution
4. Human interface and reporting
5. Temporary table for import/export
6. Data transmission (usually AS2 or FTPS), with recovery

Fortunately, in many instances, a developer already has the first, second, and sixth in place.

Non-X12 Business-to-Business Document Exchange

Companies that see the benefit of integration with other organizations frequently realize the sophistication of EDI is sometimes not needed.  During the last decade XML based B2B tools have improved so development and operation without I.T. involvement costs less.  Mapforce is a sound solution to move to XML B2B document exchanges since it is low cost and can be readily tailored.

The “one-ups” that end users want, yet consider expensive, are economical because other companies have face and solved the same need.  During the past decade, many useful links have been written and are now on our shelf.  As a plus, many conform to the GS1 and OAGi standardized tag XML schemas so acceptance by trading partners and other organizations is easier and more economical.  For instance a delimited or positional file from a customer or vendor can easily be converted into the format your application needs.  This means that convincing users to take the next process automation step is easier.

Conclusion

More instances of EDI and B2B integration would benefit your company through improved process automation for faster processes and lower head count.  An investment in automation can have a quick return and later build outs can yield further savings.

Let DCS help you set your B2B foundation or add more process automation. Setting up properly is straight forward but not trivial. We recommend our GROW™ Development service.

• DCS experience extends to the interface with ERP, WMS, and accounting applications, as well as to the EDI system.  We know these components intimately; we know how they must be linked.
• We are experts with the most practical, customer-oriented experience.  Unfortunately, many XML application developers do not have B2B experience.  DCS Specialists’ experience with the requirements of large trading partners makes set-up quicker and more economical.  We can fine tune your processes and components, and then train users to properly perform.
• Finally, our solution is cost effective because no capital equipment purchase is needed.   We work with your existing components. (Our expertise is integration; we do not sell EDI or XML software or networks.)

Using a seasoned expert who knows B2B operating processes will save you time and headaches. DCS is eager to work with your ERP or WMS dealer or vendor. Your first step is easy; just email DCS for your FREE assessment.

For Additional Information:

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