Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)

Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) is the structured, electronic transmission of business transactions, such as purchase orders and invoices, between computer systems. The technology supports a wide variety of business documents. EDI systems require the most investment to set up, but create one of the most integrated business links between Eaton and its trading partners. Exchanging EDI documents with our customers allows both the customer and us to recognize many benefits, including those outlined below.

Benefits of EDI:

  • Mature Technology - EDI is a well-established protocol for exchanging business data. EDI has a high level of security and well-defined data formats, data dictionary, and communication methods.
  • Business Integration - Since EDI can be integrated into a company's business structure, it can provide faster, better, and more accurate information. Furthermore, setting up EDI can provide trading partners with a better understanding of each other's business processes.
  • High Volume - EDI is the best technology for routinely sending large quantities of data, such as purchase orders and invoices.

Basic Requirements:

  • Hardware - personal, mini, or mainframe computer 
  • Software - commercially available translation software 
  • Standards - ANSI X12 (North America) or UN/EDIFACT (International) 
  • Communication - Value-Added Network (VAN). A VAN is an independent company offering services for electronic transmissions of transactions.

If you are interested in doing EDI with Eaton (Electrical Sector), please have your EDI Coordinator/Administrator contact our ECI Team at ECI@eaton.com.