B2B Data Integration and Transformation Blog

The first step to more closely aligning your EDI capabilities with the overarching goals and objectives of your organization is to examine your current state. Once you define your strengths and weaknesses and have a clear understanding of client requirements, the business strategy, executive expectations, perceptions of IT, and the CIO's goals, you can begin visualizing your desired future state and put together an improvement plan.

The winds of technological change are blowing through the supply chain. One innovation is APIs (application program interface), code that allows software programs to communicate with each other. APIs have made headlines for their ability to enable the instant transfer of data. Some industry analysts predict they will replace the EDI system.

Don't you hate it when you must admit you were wrong?

For twenty years as a technical recruiter I have shared with many candidates that my number one goal in working with them is to "First, do no harm", citing the basis of my philosophy on the Hippocratic Oath often taken by graduating physicians. I explain the importance I place on working to ensure that my interactions with passive candidates and active job seekers are professional and taking a long term view of things. After all, I have the privilege of walking alongside some outstanding EDI professionals who are making important decisions that will affect both their livelihood and career trajectory. It is a privilege I do not take lightly.

Technology is a business enabler, yet it changes so rapidly that there is frequently confusion about what kinds of technology are the best ones to implement at your firm. An example of a recent debate is whether you should continue using an EDI system or move to APIs. Moreover, blockchain technology has become a much-discussed form of payment. Should you be accepting it or not?

At the end of the year, most companies are trying to wrap up in-flight initiatives and planning for the upcoming year. During this busy time, we often help our clients (and potential clients!) with their integration strategy and project budgeting and sizing initiatives. During these high-level strategic conversations, it’s important to nail down their integration “Why” – why are they investing in EDI and data integration and what are their desired business outcomes? If you’re not familiar with the premise of “Why” among the world’s best organizations as outlined by the thought leader Simon Sinek, check out his TED Talk, How Great Leaders Inspire Action.