Effective communication is essential in business. But when you're dealing with different systems and formats, getting each one singing from the same song sheet can be a real challenge.
That's where electronic data interchange (EDI) data mapping comes in—an essential process that enables different business systems to talk to each other without friction or error.
EDI data mapping helps ensure that data is accurately translated and formatted between different systems—eliminating the need for manual data entry, reducing confusion, and saving valuable time.
Of course, there’s more to it than that. So read on as we explore the nuances of EDI data mapping, uncover its inner workings, and demonstrate its role in business communication.
You’ll also learn how EDI software transforms the EDI mapping process, simplifying the task of transferring B2B data between systems.
Imagine you have two businesses that need to exchange information electronically, like purchase orders (POs) or invoices. However, these businesses might use different software systems or data formats.
An EDI map is essentially a set of instructions that tells a computer system how to translate data from one format to another. This translation process helps different computer systems understand each other.
It may involve reformatting data, translating codes, or converting file types.
On a more technical level, during an EDI to ERP mapping event, data structures are translated from an EDI standard format (EDIFACT, ANSI X12, OFTP2, etc.) to a proprietary file that can be easily ingested into a back-end system (CSV format, txt, SAP IDoc, Flat File, or another ERP-specific format).
This complex process can involve a few different systems, such as ERP, warehouse management system (WMS), or transportation management system (TMS), and is typically performed using specialized software that can automate the process.
EDI mapping is essential for businesses that rely on electronic data interchange to communicate with partners and vendors.
Without it, companies may introduce friction and delays into communication workflows or risk non-compliance with the EDI mandates that many retailers and vendors strictly enforce when doing business.
This non-compliance can lead to costly fines, damaged business relationships, and negative vendor scorecards—possibly resulting in the dissolution of your most important business partnerships.
Although EDI data mapping can be complicated, modern software handles much of the workload for you (more on that shortly). Let’s break down what the process involves:
Although EDI mapping automates complex data translations and improves compliance, the real value lies in its ability to keep businesses aligned with industry standards and trading partner requirements. Here are the benefits of robust EDI mapping:
EDI mapping is undoubtedly complex to manage effectively. Here’s why:
Let’s talk about EDI maps. An EDI map is essentially a set of instructions that tells the system how to translate data from one format to another.
It's like a blueprint that shows how each piece of information from the source format should be handled, tweaked, or restructured to fit the needs of the target system.
If you want to create an EDI map that works correctly, you first need to wrap your head around the structure and meaning of the data in both the source and target formats. Here's what that involves:
Once you've got a solid grasp of the data structures, it's time to define the mapping rules.
These rules tell the system exactly how to transform each data element as it moves from the source to the target format. Some common transformations include:
But mapping rules aren't the only thing you need to think about. An EDI map also needs to include syntax and formatting rules to help ensure the output data looks right and meets the requirements of the target format. This means:
To create EDI maps that are effective, easy to maintain, and reusable, developers should follow some best practices:
EDI mapping software is a game-changer when it comes to automating and streamlining the data mapping process.
These specialized tools have many features that make creating, managing, and maintaining EDI maps much easier.
Some of the key features you'll often find in EDI mapping software include:
Combined, these features can drastically reduce the time and effort required to create and maintain EDI mappings, thereby boosting their accuracy and reliability.
Picking the right EDI mapping software is a big decision, as it will affect the ease of data exchange between systems and the manual input required.
When you're choosing EDI mapping software, think about the following:
As businesses continue to digitize their operations, the hugely important role of effective EDI data mapping shows no signs of abating.
It’s quite simply essential for maintaining compliance, helping ensure accuracy, and streamlining operations.
Epicor EDI solutions, particularly when integrated with ERP systems, provide a seamless, automated communication flow that helps businesses efficiently meet their trading partners' requirements.
It offers automated scheduling, real-time data synchronization, and advanced mapping tools, making it a powerful option for companies looking to streamline their supply chain and operational workflows.
Ready to enhance your EDI integration? Contact Epicor to learn more or schedule a demo.
maybe #8 - how familiar or how much experience do they have integrating into your ERP?
