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We have seen a big increase in ways to integrate systems, namely the Application Programming Interface or API and it has a lot going for it indeed. But how does it measure up against the proven efficiency of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)?
We have seen a big increase in ways to integrate systems, namely the Application Programming Interface or API and it has a lot going for it indeed. But how does it measure up against the proven efficiency of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)?
Depending on the needs of your business, using EDI may actually be more beneficial when it comes to B2B communication than the API.
As global business continues to develop and enter into the Cloud era, communications systems are also evolving. The API was developed to support system connectivity and program interaction in the new Cloud era.
Architected to keep up with market speeds and today’s continuously changing interface requirements, the API has garnered quite a buzz. But while APIs may appear to offer the same support for B2B integration, they unfortunately still fall a bit short when it comes to EDI led partner connections and integration capabilities.
For now it seems the only solution to the EDI or API dilemma is to work on a system that can incorporate the best of both worlds.
It’s the business processes and orchestrations that enable companies to exchange EDI documents with partners in a well-governed, secured, and managed way that are extremely valuable. The nature of EDI and APIs technologies means that one likely won’t replace the other anytime soon.
They can however work in tandem to facilitate a better business experience until EDI becomes more Cloud-era friendly. By continuing to enhance solutions that are already handling the heavy lifting of B2B and EDI into more Cloud integrated and big data focused entities, EDI will continue to be a leader in B2B communications.
Both EDI and API have got their strengths. Simply betting on one solution just wouldn't give you the flexibility you need to keep ahead of your competitors. Want to know how to keep ahead of your competitors and achieve extra flexibility? Watch our Webinar or contact us today to explore your possibilities.