EDI in the Process Industry

Issue title: Multi Supplier Operations Esprit CIM-Europe

Guest editors: E. WestkämperGuest Editor

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Blotwijk, Michiel

Affiliations: CEFIC, Av. E. van Nieuwenhuyse 4, B-1160, Brussels, Belgium

Abstract: EDI is the automated exchange of business information. It simplifies the trade procedures and makes the data more reliable. In the chemical industry EDI is considered as a strategic tool for their international business. Paper elimination is only a minor advantage of EDI, the substantial benefits are achieved through an increased internal efficiency, more efficient business practices and long term partnerships. EDI is therefore not something that can be left to the IT department. EDI applications can only be successful if it is driven by business considerations and management is committed to it.

Keywords: EDI, UN/EDIFACT, chemical industry, cost savings, internal efficiency, business procedures, international trade, long term partnership

DOI: 10.3233/HSM-1993-12108

Journal: Human Systems Management, vol. 12, no. 1, pp. 49-53, 1993