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Streamlined Connectivity Makes for Good Chemistry between Trading Partners
WACKER uses a business process network to automate processes with global supply chain partners
Photo courtesy of Wacker Chemie AG.
Simplifying Connectivity
The chemical industry continues to be plagued with various message languages, formats and disparate systems, and order processing between trading partners remains challenging. For WACKER, Elemica provides a single channel for system-to-system connectivity with its trading partners. By maintaining one connection to Elemica rather than multiple point-to-point links with each of its partners, WACKER simplifies B2B connectivity for both itself and its customers, reducing complexity and cost.
Partners can connect to WACKER via Elemica regardless of which "flavor" of EDI or XML they use for their communications, since the Elemica network translates the messages into the ChemXML format before forwarding them directly into WACKER's SAP system. Similarly, the network enables WACKER product data, such as material and order numbers, to be directly translated into partners' systems so that they can be processed without encountering disruptions and without the need for rekeying data, saving both time and money for both parties to the transaction.
Regardless of whether WACKER acts as a customer or supplier to other Elemica-connected companies, all purchase orders, confirmations, order changes, delivery notes and invoices are integrated directly into the partner's ERP system. Processing steps are fully automated, from order placement to product packaging instructions.
An additional advantage that WACKER has found in using Elemica is that the network allows for connectivity with partners regardless of their level of technical sophistication. Moreover, Elemica acts as more than just a value-added network (VAN) or EDI provider; it ensures that data moving through the network conforms to a business process by enforcing "business rules" specifying the logical content of documents. "Each member accepts Elemica's business rules, which apply to everyone," Mierke says. "This enables us to meet high standards with reduced complexity."
Mierke notes that one key to success in automating B2B processes between companies is to collaborate closely with customers to find a connectivity solution that works best for them. "We work hand-in-hand with customer to pinpoint the best way to optimize business processes in terms of efficiency, quality and speed," he concludes.
The chemical industry continues to be plagued with various message languages, formats and disparate systems, and order processing between trading partners remains challenging. For WACKER, Elemica provides a single channel for system-to-system connectivity with its trading partners. By maintaining one connection to Elemica rather than multiple point-to-point links with each of its partners, WACKER simplifies B2B connectivity for both itself and its customers, reducing complexity and cost.
Partners can connect to WACKER via Elemica regardless of which "flavor" of EDI or XML they use for their communications, since the Elemica network translates the messages into the ChemXML format before forwarding them directly into WACKER's SAP system. Similarly, the network enables WACKER product data, such as material and order numbers, to be directly translated into partners' systems so that they can be processed without encountering disruptions and without the need for rekeying data, saving both time and money for both parties to the transaction.
Regardless of whether WACKER acts as a customer or supplier to other Elemica-connected companies, all purchase orders, confirmations, order changes, delivery notes and invoices are integrated directly into the partner's ERP system. Processing steps are fully automated, from order placement to product packaging instructions.
An additional advantage that WACKER has found in using Elemica is that the network allows for connectivity with partners regardless of their level of technical sophistication. Moreover, Elemica acts as more than just a value-added network (VAN) or EDI provider; it ensures that data moving through the network conforms to a business process by enforcing "business rules" specifying the logical content of documents. "Each member accepts Elemica's business rules, which apply to everyone," Mierke says. "This enables us to meet high standards with reduced complexity."
Mierke notes that one key to success in automating B2B processes between companies is to collaborate closely with customers to find a connectivity solution that works best for them. "We work hand-in-hand with customer to pinpoint the best way to optimize business processes in terms of efficiency, quality and speed," he concludes.
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