Particularly because comprehensive ERPs are the backbone of supply chain entities who use them to help run the company, it’s key to select an ERP that can communicate with the company’s various trading partners.

That’s where EDI comes in.

The impact of integrating ERP with EDI

According to Darwin Porter, Network Operations Manager with Cerasis, Inc., there are benefits of integrating an entity’s ERP with EDI. “It reduces human errors. If humans are typing everything into invoices, purchase orders, etc., errors are likely,” says Porter, adding, “But this way, the data is transmitted via automated systems that are available to carrier partners 24/7.”

One of the downsides is the initial cost to set-up an all-encompassing EDI solution. However, once implemented, “it’s automated and simple to use,” says Porter.

When the desired level of integration has been reached, keystrokes are minimized, which eliminates redundant effort to enter pertinent data. When, for example, a vendor transmits a purchase order via email, fax or even web forms, someone with their trading partner must read it and manually enter the data into their ERP system. That means integration can’t occur. But, with direct connections to EDI premise software, the data is transmitted accurately, seamlessly and quickly.

---

Tami Kamin Meyer is an Ohio attorney and writer. She may be reached at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or @girlwithapen.