Electronic Data Interchange Adoption Research Articles

Electronic data interchange use in German and US organizations

This paper investigates the adoption of electronic data interchange (EDI) by large German firms. In particular, the positive and negative impact of various factors on EDI selection decision is analysed, along with realized benefits of EDI application. Large German user and non-user organizations have been surveyed and several follow-up interviews have been conducted. The findings are compared with the results of a similar survey conducted recently in the USA. A strong interest in trading electronically and a steady growth in the application of EDI was found as companies began to realize the early benefits. Among users the actual quality of EDI use was found to be low in many cases. Typical findings were high levels of forced EDI adoption by large organizations and only limited achievement of high level benefits of EDI. Several obstacles for widespread EDI adoption and its effective use have yet to be overcome. The far reaching impact of EDI on the organization and its integration cause major problems. Because the EDI scene in both countries is the result of a patchwork of effectively closed trading communities, we cannot yet expect any single document standard to dominate.

Technological Management Learning: The Adoption of Electronic Data Interchange by Retailers

Considers EDI for retailers in the context of innovation theory. A case study of nine retailers who adopted EDI during 1987‐92 is used to discuss the reasons why EDI was delayed until 1986‐93 even though it was technically possible in the early 1980s. Argues that an innovation will not join the portfolio of “possibles” until three issues are resolved. These are (1) innovation “poles” to disseminate EDI know‐how, (2) cost and performance improvements to the technology, and (3) management learning, based (in this case) on learning developed from handling EPoS. Also considers the decision‐making process underlying EDI.

The impact of EDI on the components sector of the Australian automotive industry

Electronic data interchange (EDI) is an example of a cooperative inter-organizational system capable of providing competitive advantage. This article examines the inter-organizational impact that EDI has had on the first Australian industry-wide adoption of the technology — the Australian automotive industry. The research focused on the component sector of the automotive industry which supply parts primarily to the locally-based multinational car manufacturers. It was this sector that has felt the greatest impact of EDI adoption, and the sector that expected the least benefits. In fact, about two-thirds of suppliers indicated they adopted EDI only because they were told to by their much larger customers (the car companies). Despite their apparent pessimism, the component sector did receive benefits from EDI adoption. In assessing the benefits, participants cited improved relations with trading partners, enhanced customer service, improved data accuracy and increased productivity as ranked in the highest group of claimed benefits from adoption. The greatest benefits were gained by organizations in which EDI was not only used, but fully integrated into their internal application systems. The analysis also indicated that senior management support was an important factor in achieving the stated benefits.

DISTRIBUTION – THE LOGIC OF 1992

To meet the challenges of the Single European Market in 1992 the distribution strategies of ICI Chemicals and Polymers are outlined, with reference to the adoption of electronic data interchange and the benefits it can bring.