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Electronic data interchange is no longer a thing of the future. In fact, EDI has been around for 50 years, changing the way that companies have conducted business since the 70’s. Although the concept has been around for a while, things didn’t really start to heat up for EDI until the late 90’s. This was when businesses started to truly see the benefits of EDI investment.
If you’re not on the EDI train yet, it is time to hop on. Perhaps you’ve already started browsing around the for electronic data interchange software providers, but just can’t seem to land on the right one for you and your company’s specific needs. Keep reading to help narrow down the best EDI companies from the mediocre ones.
They provide different types of EDI
Yes, you heard that right. There is more than one type of EDI, there are actually several. Electronic data interchange can be completed through a web browser, software installment, and even on a mobile device. Even if you don’t know which one is right for you at this moment in time, try to find an EDI provider that offers multiple EDI platforms. That way, you can switch from a web EDI program to an installed software if you choose to do so.
They provide widespread support for different document types
When EDI first started off, its main purpose was for businesses to exchange invoices and payments as easily as possible. Nowadays, EDI means so much more than just that. It is used for exchanging all sorts of business documents, basically any key documents that play a part in the way a business functions. This includes but is not limited to:
- Invoices and order forms
- Requests for quotes
- Financial statements
- Product catalogs
- Remittance advice
The top EDI companies and softwares can handle every type of document and get it from point A to point B quickly and successfully.
They have a solid customer support team
Let’s be honest, the world of technology is extremely impressive, but there are times when technology fails us. When softwares aren’t running the way that they’re supposed to or web browsers aren’t opening at all, it might be time to call customer support. The best EDI services have a 24/7 customer support team that will be able to fix your EDI problems with a quick phone call.
They have an EDI program that is easy to use
There is no sense in investing in an EDI software or web-based browser if no one in your company knows how to use it. Electronically exchanging data is something that will be done every business day, multiple times a day, so make sure every member of your team knows how it functions.
They have several years of experience and major companies
If you’re looking into EDI investment, steer clear of the companies that have no reviews, no experience, and no clients. This is never a good sign. Since EDI has been in the works for 5 decades, there are plenty of reputable companies to choose from with years of experience. These are the ones you should be seriously considering.