Original publication date: December, 2002
If you're a Softshare Delta user, you know that before you can create a data translation map, you must first model the source and target data. And, you know that if you're mapping EDI documents, at least one of the models in your map—source or target—will represent the EDI implementation conventions (ICs) of a trading partner.
But what you may not know is that the process of modeling EDI implementation conventions just got a whole lot easier. Through our customer service Web site called eService, Softshare has recently made hundreds of predefined EDI models available for download—free of charge.
Our predefined models are grouped by company name and can be downloaded individually or as a group in zip file format. During the unzip operation, a folder (named after the company whose predefined models you are downloading) is created in the directory of your choice. Each downloaded model for that company is listed in the folder and has an extension of .bom.
The ability to download predefined Delta models can save you the considerable time and trouble of tracking down, interpreting, and then modeling the EDI implementation conventions (ICs) of your various trading partners. For example, if you were setting up a mapping solution for an EDI relationship with Petco, you could go to Softshare eService and download Delta-ready models that represent Petco's various EDI transactions. No EDI modeling legwork required.
Currently, Softshare has predefined EDI models for approximately 150 companies posted on eService (under the link titled "Trading Partner Models"). If we don't have your trading partner's models available, check back often—this list will grow quickly.