EDI
EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) is a standard way for businesses to share important documents electronically. Think of it as a digital mailroom that automatically handles purchase orders, shipping notices, and invoices between companies. Instead of manually typing information or sending paper documents, EDI systems automatically translate and send this information between different company computer systems. This makes business operations faster, reduces errors, and saves money. It's particularly important in logistics, retail, and supply chain jobs where companies need to exchange large amounts of information with their trading partners quickly and accurately.
Examples in Resumes
Managed EDI implementation for 50+ trading partners, reducing processing time by 60%
Coordinated with vendors to establish new EDI connections and document flows
Troubleshot EDI transmission errors and maintained compliance with trading partner requirements
Set up Electronic Data Interchange systems for major retail clients
Typical job title: "EDI Specialists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find EDI Specialists
Professional Networks
Industry Resources
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you manage an EDI implementation project for a large retailer with multiple trading partners?
Expected Answer: Should discuss project planning, trading partner coordination, testing procedures, timeline management, and risk mitigation strategies. Should mention experience with different EDI standards and mapping requirements.
Q: How do you handle EDI trading partner disputes and ensure compliance?
Expected Answer: Should explain process for tracking and documenting transmissions, maintaining trading partner agreements, resolving communication issues, and ensuring business rules are followed.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What EDI documents have you worked with and what are their business purposes?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain common EDI documents like purchase orders (850), invoices (810), shipping notices (856), and their role in business operations.
Q: How do you troubleshoot EDI transmission errors?
Expected Answer: Should describe process for identifying error sources, reading error logs, working with trading partners, and implementing solutions to prevent future issues.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is EDI and why is it important in business?
Expected Answer: Should explain that EDI is a standard way for businesses to exchange documents electronically, and describe basic benefits like speed, accuracy, and cost savings.
Q: What are the basic components of an EDI system?
Expected Answer: Should mention translation software, communication methods, and basic document types, showing understanding of how data flows between trading partners.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic EDI document understanding
- Monitoring EDI transmissions
- Basic troubleshooting
- Data entry and validation
Mid (2-5 years)
- EDI mapping and testing
- Trading partner setup
- Error resolution
- Document flow management
Senior (5+ years)
- Project management
- Integration planning
- Team leadership
- Trading partner relationship management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic EDI document types
- Lack of experience with major EDI software platforms
- Poor communication skills
- No experience working with trading partners
- Unable to explain basic supply chain processes
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