Electronic Data Interchange allows the exchange of commercial information between computers irrespective of processing system. This is achieved by the use of standard formats that have to be agreed between trading partners for each document. Once the standard format has been developed and implemented, the benefits of EDI are reflected in:
Reduced delivery times
Replacement of paper with electronic trading documents
Reduction in errors and repetitive tasks
Savings in staff time and cost
All of which adds up to improved customer service.