Electronic Data Interchange in International Trade

In: Logistics information management, Band 5, Heft 2, S. 36-42

Abstract

Standardization and simplification of trade procedures constitute
an urgent need to line up the document flow with the goods flow in
international trade. Electronic data interchange (EDI) is a co‐operative
inter‐organizational information system providing electronic exchange of
messages agreed between trade partners. Outlines a possible
implementation procedure for EDI. A first part consists of a six‐step
feasibility study. If this study ends with a positive recommendation the
implementation procedure can start. Discussions of this process concern
several requirements: completely understand about EDI; agree on
standards with business partners; modify existing systems; translate
data: prepare communications; and management and audit of the whole
process. Concerning the cost‐benefit analysis for the EDI application
– a step which is mandatory in the feasibility study – gives
further details on different types of cost (recurring and non‐recurring,
direct and indirect) and on both quantifiable and non‐quantifiable
benefits.