It mainly forms the message data format of structured transaction processing according to a recognized standard, and then transmits these structured message data from the computer to the computer at the other end through the network.
The so-called EDI should include the following three basic aspects:
1, an application field that needs information exchange, namely the environment of EDI. For example: international trade, domestic trade, hospital work, library work, project management and so on. It defines where information needs to be transmitted and between places.
2. The process and rules of information exchange, that is, the process of EDI. It reflects the business process and the accompanying information flow in the actual field. For example, in the process of trade, from inquiry and quotation to payment and delivery. It involves suppliers, buyers, banks, transportation companies, insurance companies and other enterprises (or roles), and it needs to realize dozens of information exchange services. In practical work, this process is embodied in a series of rules and standards.
3. Means of information exchange, including hardware equipment, communication equipment and software, namely the technical realization of EDI. At present, computer equipment and communication equipment are quite common, and the application of EDI has no special requirements, generally speaking, it does not need special development. For example, communication lines can be solved in various ways, from the simplest telephone lines to renting satellite lines. What is needed is software development. For the application in a certain field, it is necessary to have a set of special software that meets a certain standard. Solving the problems in this field is a technical task.
In a word, EDI should be fully recognized and understood, not only from the perspective of technology, but also from the perspective of hardware.