In linQsupply®, we offer two types of EDI connections
Dedicated connections to business partners:
- These connections are made directly between your System and the System of a specific business partner, for example, using the AS2 Protocol.
- They allow for direct and exclusive communication channel to this business partner.
- This type of connection is ideal for business partners, with whom you regularly and in large amounts of data.
Links to Value-Added Networks (VANs):
- A VAN acts as a communication platform that combines a lot of different business partners.
- By connecting to a VAN, you get access to all our business partners that are also connected to this network.
- This simplifies the EDI communication, because you don't have to set up for each Partner a separate connection.
- A dedicated connection offers an exclusive and direct connection to a specific business partner.
- A connection to a VAN provides a single channel of communication to many business partners and increases the flexibility and reach of your EDI communication.
Advantages and disadvantages of the two types of EDI connections
Dedicated Connections:
benefits:
- Exclusive Connection: Direct and exclusive connection to a specific business partner.
- Security: Higher safety thanks to the direct communication channel.
- Speed: Faster data transfer without intermediate stops.
- Control: More control over data sharing and adaptation to individual requirements.
Cons:
- Complexity: Higher installation and maintenance costs for each of the dedicated connection.
- Cost: Potentially higher costs due to the need for individual Connections.
- Scalability: Less scalable, because each new connection must be set up separately.
Value-Added Networks (VANs):
benefits:
- Centralized Communication: A Central channel of communication to many business partners.
- Easy Set-Up: Easier and faster creation of new Connections.
- Cost savings: Potentially lower cost through shared use of the network.
- Flexibility: Flexibility, quickly to new business partners to access and connect with them.
Cons:
- Dependency: Dependence on a third-party provider (VAN) for data transmission.
- Security: May be a lower level of security in comparison to dedicated Connections.
- Speed: Data transfers can be slower due to the additional intermediate stations.
- Transparency: Less visibility and control over the direct exchange of data.
Through the combination of dedicated connections, and VANs in linQsupply®, businesses can use the advantages of both approaches and their EDI communication optimally adapted to your individual needs.
