Exchange documents with web EDI programs

Use an EDI software vendor to connect with companies via web EDI transactions. The third party vendor provides client software on a web browser at low cost versus complex, proprietary software with additional value-added network (VAN) provider fees.

I recommend: Softshare offers Athena for web EDI, boasting features available for desktop applications, such as templates, reports and calendars. Direct EDI provides a web-based EDI system for EDI compliance with free installation and support.

Use EDI mapping software to exchange proprietary data

Use EDI translation software if you are exchanging proprietary data. Whether your data is from standardized or regulated documentation or just industry specific, translator software can map your user data elements into the ANSI X12 EDI standard data elements for sending and reverse the process to receive.

I recommend: Get EDI compliant quickly with Pro_EDI, a versatile EDI translator and mapping utility for Windows, UNIX and LINUX. Try MapForce from Altova for EDI mapping of any combination of EDI, XML or EDIFACT data integration.

Get custom EDI applications from EDI software providers

EDI software providers develop client software and customized EDI applications to integrate the EDI business process with your existing operations. Hire a software developer to evaluate your needs, review your existing data exchange process and create a custom EDI software solution.

I recommend: Xebec Data offers web interfaces and DataTrek, an easy to use EDI application for your server. 1 EDI Source, an EDI developer and provider, offers software that runs on multiple platforms and is VAN independent. Check out 1 EDI Source's consulting service for solutions to complex trading partners.