3M has announced that they have added the availability for their low volume customers the ability to exchange documents through EDI.
Now companies exchanging documents with 3M have two choices.
- High volume – exchange of X12 format documents directly or after processing by an EDI VAN such as GXS’ Trade Grid.
- Low volume – connection through web forms hosted by Ariba, a division of SAP.
The choice between an X12 format or web forms is largely dependent upon your budget and business practice. For example, a high volume connection requires an initial investment, but provides speeds and no data entry labor cost. A low volume of EDI documents exchanged means little initial investment, but requires data entry into your business application.
The basic supply chain documents required are:
- Inbound Purchase Order (Sales Order)
- Outbound P.O. Acknowledgement (Confirmation). Time passes and the order is filled.
- Outbound Shipment Notice (ASN)
- Outbound Invoice
- Inbound Payment Approved: these directions assume you are a vendor to 3M. If you are a customer, then the direction is reversed.
Recommendations
If you are a low volume user with an old EDI system such as Gentran:Director or TrustedLink, you may continue to use that system. However, if you are new to 3M, Data Communication Solutions (DCS) recommends the web form.
If you are a high volume user, no changes are needed. However, you may want DCS to “tune-up” your processes to eliminate manual steps.
Our EDI Specialists can assist you with exchanging documents with 3M and other manufacturers. We can review your system and make sure that your EDI processes run smoothly. Contact us today.