What is it? Why do I need it? These are the
questions posed on the cover of this book and the main questions this
book attempts to answer. These seemingly simple questions are not so in
the world of EDI. This book is written for the total beginner. If you
have no idea of what EDI is and you have been required to implement a
new program, this book is for you. Armed with a basic understanding of
EDI you will be able to maintain control of your EDI projects.
In Chapter 1 EDI is defined and described. We also look at what an
EDI translator is. Chapter 2 goes on to deconstruct an EDI document. We
look at a sample document and explain how to read it. We cover segments,
elements, composite elements, and control envelopes. In Chapter 3 we
explore EDI implementation guidelines and how to understand the meaning
of the segments and elements. We compare a sample implementation guide
with our sample document and discover the meaning of the data, allowing
us to actually read the document. We also talk about looping,
definitions, and implementation guide notations. Chapter 4 is a
discussion on how a simple EDI program works within several industries.
Here we look at simple retail, medical billing, and third party
logistics models. Finally, in Chapter 5 we discuss technical and
financial aspects of implementing EDI into your business.
Once you have read this simple, easy to understand, eBook you will
have enough knowledge to progress with your own EDI implementation.
