While most EDI solutions out there can cover the basics, what really sets one apart from another? Whether you are choosing to start up with a new provider/tool or making the switch because what you have isn’t working, it’s important to know what you should expect - from the features offered to the expertise and support behind them. So what should the best SAP EDI integration solution deliver?

Deep SAP and EDI Expertise

In order to be successful with your SAP EDI Integration, a comprehensive understanding of SAP and EDI are required. This can come from in-house resources, or from your service provider.

If you’re handling it in house, you not only need someone who understands SAP, and someone who understands EDI, but you also need the ability for those two people to understand each other and bridge the gap in between. When that synergy happens, you have the knowledge you need for a best-of-breed solution.

If you are using a managed service provider, the best providers combine both EDI and SAP expertise. This way, they can be a true advisor and eliminate the need for you to maintain that SAP EDI integration knowledge in house.

The goal is to ensure your SAP EDI expertise doesn’t walk out the door with a single staff member.

Robust and Flexible Technology

Most EDI systems on the market will handle your basic integrations. Most will handle X12, EDIFACT, and other common formats. This may work for your first trading partner, but what about when the next one needs a web service, or a complex flat file?

To make sure you have the best possible solution that can handle a wide range of integrations in the future, choose something that does more than just EDI. Consider a tool that will handle any-to-any integration. One that handles a wide range of communication protocols – from (s)FTP to AS2, API, and other options. Look for a company or product that is continuing to grow and adapt with new and emerging technologies, or one that will work with you for an unusual requirement unique to your business.

Don’t just think about what is best for you right now, but what will be best for you for the next 4, 5, or even 10 years.

Responsive Support You Can Trust

If you choose to manage a software solution, or outsource everything – either way you will need to deal with an outside vendor. Maybe it’s for technical support for the software, or maybe you are relying on them to be your SAP EDI expert partner. Whichever it is, ensure you get some references and really understand what level of support you can expect.

If it’s a fully outsourced solution you are choosing, the partner on the other end is even more important. They are going to be determining the speed of your implementations, the quickness of responses, and the level of help and support you get. Ensure you are confident in who you are putting this trust in. Are they a giant company with thousands of customers? Or are they a niche provider?

Do your homework and know who you are partnering with. This way you can avoid waiting days for a response and ensure you have the best option for your business.

Cost Transparency and Value

EDI pricing styles can vary greatly from one provider to another. To get the best value for your company, be sure to dig into the details. Don’t just ask about onboarding and your first few partners, but partners down the road as well. Is there a charge to onboard a new partner? Is it potentially more than you would save in manual effort if they have small volumes?

For software you will manage, consider all of the pricing components that go into it: do you need a server or is it cloud-based? Do you pay for each external connection? Is there a VAN (value added network) charge, and if so – is there a minimum? These are some of the questions to ask yourself when making your cost comparison.

For a managed service, some things to consider are: Is there a cost to onboard or set up the system? Does this cost recur, or is there a cost for each new partner you set up? What level of support is included - is there a charge for each ticket logged or partner onboarded? Do you pay a minimum price, or are you only charged based on your volumes?

Think about your EDI future, and do your cost comparison a few years out to know if you are getting value for what you are spending. The cheapest option today isn’t always the best value tomorrow.

Looking into your Future

While it’s clear EDI is not going away, it is evolving. An expanding list of industries is using it, the protocols used for transmission are changing, and the level of data and precision required to avoid costly fines is increasing. This blog explored some of the main areas to think about when choosing what will be the best SAP EDI integration solution for your company. While they aren’t the only factors, they are certainly a good starting point.

If you’d like to explore what this could look like for your business, we’re happy to have a no-obligation conversation. Please reach out to us at info@contax.com and ask for Jodi.