The Ins and Outs of Web-based EDI: Feature, Benefits, and Costs

Web-based Electronic Data Interchange, also called web EDI or internet-based EDI, is a cloud-based solution that allows trading partners to exchange business document data using a web browser. Let's explore the features, benefits, and costs of web-based EDI software, and how it can maximize supply chain efficiency.

WebEDI From Edict Systems

WebEDI, Edict Systems' web-based EDI subscription service, makes connecting and doing EDI with valued customers quick and easy. This EDI solution offers a low-cost alternative to in-house EDI systems while providing the many benefits of EDI, including speeding the transfer of business documents, eliminating lost paperwork, reducing administrative phone calls with customers, and minimizing chargebacks.

Business documents including purchase orders, invoices, and shipping notices can be transmitted using a web browser and internet connection. This enables faster, more efficient communication, streamlining supply chain processes and improving collaboration. By eliminating the need for manual data entry, WebEDI reduces errors and increases accuracy and reliability.

Features of WebEDI

Here are some of the features that make WebEDI accessible to businesses of all sizes: 

• User-Friendly Interface: Designed to be simple and intuitive when processing incoming and outgoing transactions, eliminating the need for specific software, downloads, or dedicated networks.
• Real-Time Visibility: Visibility into the status of transactions to track and monitor operations leading to more informed decisions and better control over supply chain processes.
• Support for Various Document Types: Document types include purchase orders, invoices, and shipping notices, all viewable as HTML or PDF. Documents can be archived to streamline future processes.
• Flexible Pricing: Adaptable pricing provides options regardless of size or number of trading partners. Edict Systems' pricing model has no hidden fees, and with no contracts, businesses are free to cancel at any time. Businesses only pay for what they use each month so they can easily determine their monthly costs and make adjustments as their business grows without overages, hidden fees, or miscellaneous charges.
• No Additional Hardware or Software Required: WebEDI eliminates the need for businesses to invest in additional hardware or software installation, making it a convenient and accessible solution.

Benefits of WebEDI

WebEDI allows businesses to do EDI without having to have extensive EDI knowledge, hire EDI experts, or worry about in-house EDI programs. Here are some additional benefits:

• Compliance and Collaboration: Comply with EDI mandates, improving EDI capabilities and fostering collaboration. Easily complete EDI transactions with business partners for improved supply chain processes.
• Cost Savings: Reallocate resources usually spent on expensive hardware or software to other areas of the business.
• Automation and Efficiency: Save time, money, and resources while speeding up order fulfillment and boosting customer satisfaction.
• Data Accuracy: Data accuracy and reduced errors mean improved order fulfillment and fewer costly mistakes. Businesses can rely on the accuracy of the EDI documents and data exchanged ensuring smooth operations.

How WebEDI Works

1. Your customer sends an EDI Purchase Order (PO) the way they do with all of their EDI suppliers.
2. You receive an email alerting you a PO has arrived. Then you log into WebEDI using a web browser.
3. You process your new PO for viewing and printing in a readable format. WebEDI then sends an EDI acknowledgment back to your customer confirming you received the PO.
4. When goods are ready to ship and invoice, you select a PO and an invoice screen appears already populated with billing information from the PO.
5. Your invoices are converted to EDI and delivered to your customer. You can also send PO acknowledgments, ship notices, and print packing labels.

The WebEDI portal is designed to be simple and intuitive when processing incoming and outgoing transactions, allowing businesses to transact with multiple trading partners from a single interface. Built-in error checking provides alerts when specific trading partner data is required, and users have the option to download order data to import into applications like QuickBooks.

The Cost of Implementing WebEDI

The cost of implementing WebEDI varies depending on the specific requirements and needs of a business. Here are other important factors to consider:

• Number of Trading Partners and Document Exchanges: The cost may vary based on the number of trading partners and how many business documents are exchanged each month. Different pricing tiers are available to accommodate businesses of different sizes, whether exchanging 5 EDI documents or 200+.
• Upfront Investment and Maintenance Costs: Traditional EDI systems often require significant upfront investment in infrastructure and resources, however, Edict Systems' WebEDI solution offers a cost-effective solution. Contact our WebEDI team to request a quote today.
• Scalability and Flexibility: WebEDI allows businesses to easily adjust their usage and costs as their business grows. If a business expands beyond WebEDI, Edict Systems offers a range of EDI solutions that will fit business needs including integrated solutions or fully managed options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between traditional (or classic) EDI and Web-based EDI?

Traditional EDI relies on specific software, dedicated networks, and expert staff to operate and maintain the system. On the other hand, web-based EDI solutions utilize the internet and web browsers for document exchange, making it more accessible and cost-effective for smaller businesses. This accessibility makes it easier for businesses to collaborate with their customers, avoid delays in data transmission, eliminate unnecessary fees, and move between tiers as their business needs change.

We've never done EDI before...is it difficult to learn?

Thousands of suppliers actively use WebEDI for their EDI needs because it is designed to be easy-to-use, user-friendly, and easily accessible. We provide detailed documentation, help within WebEDI data entry fields, and demonstration videos to help you quickly learn how to process orders and return documents.

Do I have to install new software?

One of the many benefits of WebEDI is it only requires a web browser and an internet connection. WebEDI is designed to be user-friendly and help suppliers become EDI-capable without having knowledge of how to do EDI. There is no software to download, install, or support, and no need for data mapping. WebEDI does it all for you.

What else can WebEDI do?

WebEDI also allows you to send EDI order acknowledgments, ship notices, invoices, and print GS1-128 (formerly UCC-128) shipping labels.

How much does customer support cost?

Customer support is available free of charge as it’s included with the WebEDI monthly subscription. We provide live, US-based support via phone, email, and chat from 8am to 8pm Eastern. The vast majority of WebEDI support cases are resolved during the initial session or by the end of the business day.

The Future of Web-based EDI

As the digital landscape expands and more buying organizations require their suppliers to use EDI, web-based EDI solutions will play a crucial role in facilitating collaborations across supply chain networks. WebEDI is a powerful tool that can streamline business operations, improve efficiency, and boost return on investment (ROI). With a user-friendly interface, real-time visibility, and support for various document types, it provides a cost-effective and accessible solution to businesses of all sizes. By automating data exchange with trading partners, businesses can dedicate resources to what matters most – driving business growth.

Ready to learn more?

If you want to further explore WebEDI and how it can add value to your business, visit our website here: https://www.webedi.com/. Ready to see WebEDI in action? Click the button below to schedule a demo.