EDIFACT vs. X12

Attribute	EDIFACT	X12
Standard	International standard	American standard
Structure	Hierarchical structure	Flat structure
Segment Terminator	' character	* character
Data Elements	Separated by + character	Separated by * character
Usage	Commonly used in Europe	Commonly used in North America

Introduction

Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) is a method of exchanging business documents electronically between trading partners. Two of the most commonly used EDI standards are EDIFACT and X12. Both standards have their own unique attributes and advantages. In this article, we will compare the attributes of EDIFACT and X12 to help you understand the differences between them.

Structure

One of the key differences between EDIFACT and X12 is their structure. EDIFACT uses a hierarchical structure where data segments are organized in a tree-like format. Each segment is identified by a code and can contain multiple data elements. X12, on the other hand, uses a flat structure where data segments are arranged in a linear format. Each segment is identified by a number and can also contain multiple data elements.

Flexibility

When it comes to flexibility, EDIFACT is known for being more flexible than X12. EDIFACT allows for more customization and can accommodate a wider range of business processes. This makes it a popular choice for international transactions where different countries may have unique requirements. X12, on the other hand, is more rigid and standardized, which can make it easier to implement but less adaptable to specific business needs.

Industry Adoption

Both EDIFACT and X12 are widely used in various industries around the world. EDIFACT is more commonly used in Europe and Asia, while X12 is more prevalent in North America. The choice of standard often depends on the region and the trading partners involved. Some industries may have a preference for one standard over the other based on historical usage or industry-specific requirements.

Message Types

Another difference between EDIFACT and X12 is the types of messages they support. EDIFACT is known for its extensive library of message types, covering a wide range of business processes such as orders, invoices, and shipping notices. X12 also supports a variety of message types, but its library is not as extensive as EDIFACT. This can be a consideration when choosing a standard based on the specific types of transactions you need to support.

Implementation

Implementing EDIFACT and X12 can vary in complexity. EDIFACT is often considered more complex to implement due to its hierarchical structure and flexibility. This can require more effort and expertise to set up and maintain. X12, on the other hand, is generally easier to implement because of its standardized and rigid structure. This can make it a more attractive option for organizations looking for a simpler EDI solution.

Conclusion

In conclusion, EDIFACT and X12 are both widely used EDI standards with their own unique attributes. EDIFACT is known for its flexibility and customization, making it a popular choice for international transactions. X12, on the other hand, is more standardized and easier to implement, making it a preferred option for organizations looking for a simpler EDI solution. The choice between EDIFACT and X12 ultimately depends on factors such as industry requirements, trading partner preferences, and the types of transactions needed to be supported.