We anticipate requiring EDI in the next few years on all schedules, due to the tremendous efficiencies it offers for all. As more and more agencies begin to use Electronic Commerce and large commercial concerns use EDI, it will be a standard practice to maintain competitiveness. It will reduce the cost of paper catalog distribution, reduce requests for information, and improve the accuracy of orders. Software costs will vary depending on whether you are going to use a stand-alone package or integrate it with a mainframe system. The same is true for VAN services.
Comparison charts are available.
It is important to note that this same software and VAN services can be used to do business electronically with private industry and state and local governments. They may look different than orders received in the past, since GSA strives to migrate and utilize the latest standards. Reports will be available for ordering, but not for browsing statistics. Links are available at the contractor area or product level. Text is discouraged because it reduces the efficiencies of EDI, and makes on-line screens more difficult.