Right Partner, Right Results

How DCS Turned Chaotic Cleo Integration into a Solid, Scalable Platform

Discover how DCS transformed a struggling Cleo Integration Cloud environment — delivering results that went far beyond a typical remediation engagement. Referred directly by Cleo to replace an existing third-party integration partner, DCS brought the expertise and collaborative approach the client had been missing:

  • A clean, structured CIC environment — Reduced errors, improved scalability, and restored alignment with CIC best practices.
  • Faster development cycles — Resolved inefficiencies left by a prior partner, dramatically cutting turnaround times.
  • CIC’s full potential, finally unlocked — Replaced unnecessary code complexity with streamlined, standards-based development.
  • High-performance integration flows — Eliminated redundant processes and improved transaction visibility and platform performance.
  • TrustedLink for iSeries migration — Structured approach to migrate EDI from existing legacy system into a single modern platform.

The Challenge

A large soft drink manufacturer and distributor managing a complex, high-volume EDI ecosystem across franchise bottlers had reached a breaking point with their existing integration partner.

Although Cleo Integration Cloud (CIC) provided a robust foundation for their B2B integrations, poor implementation practices introduced persistent obstacles that limited efficiency and increased operational risk for the manufacturer. The manufacturer experienced prolonged development cycles, slow response times, and unnecessarily complex code that constrained EDI growth and obscured CIC’s true capabilities. Inconsistent project organization and limited documentation compounded the problem, making troubleshooting a constant struggle.

DCS’s initial assessment of their CIC environment revealed several structural and governance concerns. The use of dual repositories, inconsistent organization of project components, outdated and unmaintained code base, and deviations from standard CIC development methodologies all introduced unnecessary complexity. These issues increased the likelihood of errors, reduced maintainability, and made enhancements more difficult and time-consuming.

The organization needed a highly skilled Cleo partner capable of restoring alignment with CIC best practices, improving system stability, and creating a sustainable development framework.

The Solution

As a certified Cleo partner with extensive expertise in Cleo EDI support and CIC best practices, DCS started with a comprehensive system assessment to document existing CIC projects, partner configurations, and integration workflows. This created a clear baseline and identified opportunities for standardization and simplification. The engagement proceeded in two focused phases:

Phase 1 – CIC Remediation (Three Weeks)

DCS corrected structural inconsistencies across existing Cleo Integration Cloud projects, which included:

  • Elimination of recurring errors
  • Consolidation of development artifacts
  • Standardization of repository usage
  • Realignment of implementation with CIC best practices

Phase 2 – CIC Optimization (Two Weeks)

  • Centralized processing logic for inbound and outbound documents
  • Removed duplicate events and business processes
  • Streamlined integration flows—significantly improving maintainability, performance, and real-time visibility into transaction handling

The Results

Leveraging deep expertise in Cleo EDI, Cleo Studio, and Cleo Integration Cloud (CIC), DCS transformed a complex, inefficient environment into a streamlined and scalable integration platform. The improvements delivered by DCS extended well beyond technical corrections. The client now operates with a stable, predictable integration platform that reduces operational disruptions and accelerates partner onboarding. Internal teams benefit from clearer processes, better system transparency, and significantly less time spent managing issues — giving the organization greater confidence and a scalable foundation for future growth.

The DCS Difference

The client specifically valued DCS’s collaborative approach. Compared to prior experiences, DCS was viewed as both more knowledgeable and more supportive, listening carefully to concerns, investing time to understand business requirements, and sharing information proactively. This partnership-oriented methodology improved communication, accelerated decision-making, and built stronger confidence across stakeholder groups.

Looking Ahead

With the CIC environment stabilized and modernized, the client  engaged DCS to provide ongoing EDI through a managed services model. Working collaboratively with the manufacturer’s internal team, DCS provides continuous Cleo EDI support, development, and troubleshooting.

DCS is also leading the migration of legacy TrustedLink for iSeries (TLi) processes into Cleo Integration Cloud, consolidating EDI to a single modern integration platform.

Conclusion

What began as a Cleo referral evolved into a high-impact modernization and optimization initiative. Today, DCS serves as a trusted extension of the client’s team—driving ongoing CIC development, supporting new trading partner onboarding, providing expert troubleshooting, and leading the path to a fully modernized integration environment.

Maximize Your Cleo Integration Cloud with DCS

If your organization relies on Cleo Integration Cloud, Cleo Studio, or Cleo Clarify and is struggling with slow development cycles, recurring errors, or growing system complexity, DCS can help. DCS provides Cleo Integration Cloud consulting, Cleo CIC development, CIC optimization, and ongoing managed services to stabilize integrations, eliminate recurring errors, and improve performance.

Schedule a complimentary assessment to identify optimization opportunities and learn how your Cleo EDI can work even better.

About Data Communication Solutions (DCS)

DCS helps organizations gain control, stability, and efficiency across their EDI and B2B integration environments:

  • EDI Managed Services for ongoing support and monitoring
  • EDI Professional Services for optimization and remediation
  • Cleo Integration Cloud (CIC) Support & Development
  • Cleo Studio & Cleo EDI Expertise
  • Legacy Integration Modernization & Migration

Whether you need short-term Cleo expertise or long-term managed support, DCS delivers the technical depth and responsiveness required for reliable, scalable EDI operations tailored to your business needs.

Contact Us

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