EDI and Web Services

The W3C (World Wide Web Corporation) defines Web Services as a software system designed to support interoperable Machine to Machine interaction over a network. They are often an application programming interface (API) which is Web based, and as such is able to be accessed over a network, and executed on a remote system hosting the requested services.

Commonly the term Web Services refers to client servers that communicate using XML messages that follow the SOAP standard. SOAP is the protocol for exchanging XML based messages over computer networks, generally with HTTP. It is the basic messaging framework that supports more abstract layers.

For Java and .NET SOAP frameworks, the Web Services Description Language is a prerequisite, so that the information is able to be read by the receiving server. Web Services has no single set of specifications, and no absolute requirement.

However, the three main specifications of SOAP, WSDL and UDDI can be supplemented by non integral specifications when required. Web Services are being developed all throughout the IT industry as the new way to improve the technological communication between businesses. It provides businesses with solutions as to how they can improve efficiency of their services. However, Web Services is not just an advisory service. It is built on a framework of software.

EDI Solutions

Within the environment of EDI, solutions in this sense are applications which can bridge between the current technology of a system, and the upgrade of it. These solutions include mapping products, EDI implementation, web hosting, and integration, synchronizing with various parts of the business and trade partners.

A solution means that if there are problems or gaps within the EDI system for an enterprise, the entire industry of EDI experts are able to provide some end point solution. They are able to establish the needs of the enterprise and either custom create a solution, or supply with a ready made solution. These solutions are aimed at increasing productivity, and promoting connectivity between trading partners.

In this way, the current frameworks of any enterprise can be upgraded to create more efficient systems. Solutions can determine how to interface with systems and work with diverse EDI data sets using a variety of programming tools. They are potent within the areas of shipment status; purchase orders; important bills; advance shipment notices; and shipment information.

Solutions can be software that is both stand-alone and within integrated operations. Solutions can be found within all industries that utilize EDI. Other companies offer EDI and third party integration; sourcing management; logistics management; event management; and PO invoice reconciliation on the buyer’s side of solutions.

On the vendor’s side, the offers are for EDI and Web-EDI; Fax to EDI conversion; order management; scan-packing; and event management for vendors.

First Page: EDI and Software Applications