XML Standards

There is much publicity heralding the adoption of the Internet as a means of augmenting existing EDI (electronic data interchange) solutions. This has involved the creation of specific message types (originally based on HTML and known as XML) to help take advantage of this.

Freeway's software is already XML format enabled and can exchange an XML document or message over the Internet using FTP (File Transfer Protocol) or in some cases email.

Standardised the XML Format

There are issues with XML, such as a multiplicity of standards and versions. However, organisations such as eCentre, Basda, BIC, OFSCI and many other trade organisations are now standardising on single versions making it easier to grow larger trading communities using XML.

Lower costs of EDI

An XML document or message is typically exchanged over the Internet using FTP (File Transfer Protocol) or in some cases email. Because there are no EDI VAN (Value Added Network) charges this makes XML an attractive alternative to 'traditional' EDI and attracts smaller users for whom the traffic costs for the VANs has been prohibitive up until now.

EDI, XML and AS2

The advent of AS2 may signal a sea-change in the way that an EDI or XML document or message is delivered. AS2 (Applicability Statement 2) offers 'peer-to-peer' connectivity, meaning that messages can be exchanged in real-time between trading partners with an open Internet connection.

Because the messages themselves do not need to change, AS2 is the obvious choice for existing EDI or XML users, as they do not need to change their translation and integration software, just the delivery method.

Freeway offers Drummond-Group approved AS2 solutions, suitable for suppliers (spokes) and customers (hubs). For more information about AS2 please click here.