Without automation, EDI mapping often requires two designated individuals, a “mapper” and a developer. The first maps each field from the source to the target system within a spreadsheet while ensuring that their data adheres to the latest version of each partners’ specifications. The developer then turns the manually mapped data into code the receiving software can process.
Even with the best professionals and manual procedures in place, you can expect humans to be human. If and when mistakes arise, inaccurate EDI mapping obstructs multi-system integration, hinders operations, and potentially sours working relationships. Plus, as sales channels grow and further diversify, companies will learn the hard way that manpower is not a scalable solution.
Thankfully, this isn’t the only option for companies. Sophisticated EDI software like Orderful automates data mapping while enabling users to make custom adjustments as needed.
“Orderful chose to make its EDI solution a cloud-based API for multiple reasons,” notes our CEO Erik Kiser. “With each new customer, the collective knowledge of the network evolves, empowering users to leverage an increasing number of pre-set connectors. This—combined with the Orderful support team and the regular introduction of new software features—lets companies automate EDI mapping with maximum accuracy and efficiency, no matter the number of trade partners.”
Instead of companies executing point-to-point EDI mapping and data integrations, they’re able to leverage Orderful’s network consisting of thousands of existing trade partners. For many customers, this means that they’re responsible for individually mapping 90% fewer connections. They’re also able to automate numerous functions, such as:
- Document transformation to JSON and X12
- Instantaneous EDI data validation prior to partner interactions to confirm accurate mapping
- Easy rule creation for swift resolutions to data errors
- Multiple visual interpretations of EDI data so information is both user-friendly and mapping-friendly