Simply put, EDI Testing is a process of analyzing EDI document flow end-to-end between organizations and internal systems to ensure smooth data exchange before an actual EDI implementation. Requiring that best practices and standards be followed in order to ensure the quality and compliance of the EDI data and transactions, it is one of the most important steps in the overall EDI implementation process. This includes planning and documenting the testing process; using realistic and representative data; performing different types and levels of testing; and reviewing and validating the results.

There are two basic phases to Trading Partner testing:

Testing can occur in several ways. The most common are Portal Testing and Direct Testing. When Portal Testing is required, third party fees may be incurred. No matter how your Trading Partner tests, TrueCommerce is happy to assist you with the process and facilitate along the way.

Portal Testing is when a third party or Trading Partner utilizes a platform for testing. The portal will contain various testing scenarios that need to be completed within a certain time frame. This usually requires a test file to be downloaded, which will then be used for end-ot-end testing within the TrueCommerce platform. When possible, best practice is to load your item details into the portal so that test file can use valid rather than fake items that the portal will use.

If real items are used, it is possible to complete end-to-end testing within your business system with this type of test file. Typically, a customer would not want to enter fake items from the portal to conduct internal testing. TrueCommerce will help your organization to load the outbound test files to the portal and decipher test results.

Direct Testing is conducted when the Trading Partner sends the test via email or through the TrueCommerce network. If sent via email, your TrueCommerce representative can load this file to the network so that it will be consumed by Transaction Manager for testing. As with Portal Testing, if the option is presented to use your company item information it is best to do so. TrueCommerce will work with you and the Trading Partner to create the outbound file through Transaction Manager and either send these to the Trading Partner through the network or via email to the appropriate contact.

This can vary from one Trading Partner to another, but typically, TrueCommerce can partner with your organization and the Trading Partner to complete end-to-end testing in just a few short weeks. Some Trading Partners move faster, as their testing requirements are less involved, while some take longer to test, as they can have very specific testing scenarios. In any scenario, testing cases may not line up with your business process and thus still require TrueCommerce and your organization to complete those cases before your company is approved for Production. There are other Trading Partners that do not require testing at all and move customers into Production right away.

Once testing is complete, your Trading Partner will approve you for Production. You can work to set a Production date with the Trading Partner, which will start the flow of your transactions through TrueCommerce. It is imperative that your TrueCommerce representative is aware of your "Go Live" date so that we can help to support you with the initial Production transactions.

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