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THE ERA OF EDI BEFORE THE INTERNET

Updated: Jul 17, 2023

EDI was invented in the 1960s, when computers were still rare and expensive. Businesses quickly realized the benefits of transmitting data electronically rather than on paper, and began to adopt this new system.


Shortly before the advent of the Internet, EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) was the main way for companies to transmit digital data between themselves. This system has enabled companies to manage their business processes more efficiently, limit data entry errors and reduce costs related to paper management.


Over time, EDI protocols have been standardized, allowing companies from different industries to work together more efficiently.

Before the emergence of the internet, EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) worked by using dedicated connections to transmit data between companies. Companies would need agreements with their trading partners to use this system, and EDI protocols had to be standardized to enable reliable transmission of data.


Data was usually transmitted over dedicated leased lines, such as telephone lines or dedicated broadband connections. Companies also had to use specific data formats so that data could be transmitted correctly and read without error.


EDI systems were usually managed by internal IT departments, and required regular maintenance to ensure that the data transmitted was always correct. System updates were complex and often time-consuming, limiting the ability of companies to quickly adapt to changes in their business processes.


The arrival of the internet has changed the situation considerably. With the ability to easily connect businesses around the world, data transmission has become much faster and more accessible. Companies were able to use standard protocols for data transmission, which greatly simplified the management of business processes.


In conclusion, the history of EDI before the Internet shows how technological advances have greatly simplified the way companies manage their business processes.

Companies can now use more flexible and simpler EDI systems, helping them stay competitive in an ever-changing world.


Despite the limitations mentioned above, EDI was a very useful system for companies before the arrival of the Internet. It allowed them to manage their business processes more efficiently and reduce the costs associated with paper management, which was a big step forward at the time.


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