The human element of EDI

Getting your internal team ready for EDI

A successful EDI implementation begins with preparing your internal teams. Keeping everyone on the same page ensures smoother transitions and better outcomes. Open communication is essential. Teams involved must be kept up to date on the project’s goals, timelines, and progress. Regular updates and transparency help align everyone’s efforts and reduce resistance to change. This group should include representatives from various departments who will work together to oversee the rollout. We think these departments are key:

• Management: They’re the ones you’ll need to get onboard for your EDI project to go ahead. You’ll also need them to continue to keep your EDI project on track in terms of timelines and goals.
• Information Technology (IT): There’s a bit of technical stuff involved in EDI so they’re the best to tackle those aspects.
• Finance: EDI significantly reduces manual inputting for accounts payable and receivable and will improve their processes.
• Buying/procurement: EDI will optimise processes when producing and sending purchase orders.
• Warehouse: Business operations teams will be able to get the most out of the data received through EDI, particularly information about deliveries.

A cross-functional team ensures diverse insights and facilitates better coordination. It also ensures all your departments are getting the most out of the EDI project.

What people you need for your EDI project

The success of an EDI initiative hinges on having the right people in the right roles. Here are the key areas of expertise you need:

Technical expertise

EDI involves specific technical knowledge. You’ll need colleagues skilled in:

• Understanding file formats, connection protocols and other aspects of your business software.

Workflow design

Designing workflows that align EDI processes with your business operations is critical. This requires colleagues who can:

• analyse your existing workflows and identify areas for improvement.
• determine how your EDI solution facilitates your workflow goals and daily operations.

Change management

Adopting EDI often means changing established processes. Specialists in change management help:

• guide teams through new workflows.
• address concerns and provide training.
• plan ahead to ensure a smooth transition with minimal disruptions.

Planning and coordination

Leading an EDI project demands strong project management skills. Your project leader should:

• develop detailed plans and timelines.
• coordinate activities across departments.
• monitor progress and adapt to challenges.

Worried you don’t have people who can cover these areas of knowledge? It’s all good, we’ve been doing data integration for a while so we can help with, or recommend people who can help with some of the expertise areas above.

While EDI systems are built on technology, their success depends on the people managing and operating them. By preparing your teams, engaging the right expertise, and fostering collaboration, you can ensure a smooth and successful EDI implementation. Remember, technology may drive efficiency, but it’s people who bring the vision to life.

Want to go through your EDI requirements with an expert? Get in touch with us below.