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eBusiness Solutions
eBusiness Benefits | eBusiness Enabled Processes |
eBusiness Solutions
Based on your interests, your capabilities, and the type of information to
be exchanged, 3M supports a variety of electronic data formats and communication
methods.
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)
eXtensible Markup Language (XML)
Online Order Center
Other Options
Electronic Data Interchange
Description:
EDI is the electronic exchange of business documents (transaction sets) between
organizations in a standardized format. 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 3M and its trading partners. With the proper software, EDI transactions can also be communicated via the Internet rather than traditional value-added networks.
Benefits:
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Mature Technology - EDI has been established
for more than 20 years in 3M. EDI has a high level of security and well
defined data formats, data dictonary, and communication methods. |
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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. |
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High Volume - EDI is the best technology for
routinely sending large quantities of data, such as forecasts and point
of sale. |
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) or the Internet (EDI-INT).
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A VAN is an independent company offering
services for electronic transmissions of transactions. |
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EDI-INT requires communication software to send the EDI documents to 3M via the
Internet. |
Technical Information:
Implementing EDI with 3M
EDI Guidelines
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eXtensible Markup Language (XML)
Description:
XML is a new data format that defines both the meaning and structure of the
information to be exchanged. Since XML requires less information technology
investment, many companies that have not invested in EDI systems are choosing
XML.
Benefits:
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Flexibility - XML data can be easily transformed for different purposes. The same XML document can be displayed on a Web page or used to integrate into systems. |
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Speed - XML documents can be communicated via the Internet, providing cost effective near real-time data exchange. |
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New Markets - Many companies are complementing their EDI-based systems with XML so they can connect to companies that have not invested in EDI systems. |
Basic Requirements:
Hardware - personal, mini, or mainframe computer
Software - XML translation software or service provider
Standards - cXML, Uniform Code Council (UCC), BizTalk, cbXML, ebXML
Communication - Internet communications
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Online Order Center
Description:
Order Center is a 3M Web-based application offered by some 3M business units. It enables trading partners to key their orders, check the status of their orders, track shipments, view contact
information, and browse the 3M product catalog. Order Center is a good solution for those who have relied on phoning or faxing their orders to 3M in the past, and requires no special hardware or software other than a computer and Internet access.
Benefits:
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Lower Cost - The Web-based system requires no special hardware or software other than a computer, Internet access, and a Web browser. |
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Easy Access to 3M Information - Order Center enables trading partners to view specific prices, price breaks based on quantity, product availability, estimated ship dates, and contact information. |
Basic Requirements:
Hardware - personal computer
Software - Web browser
Communication - Internet Service Provider, minimum 56kb modem
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Other Options
If you have other eBusiness capabilities not listed above, 3M will be happy to discuss them with you.
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EDI Guidelines
Implementing EDI
with 3M
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