As well as being the first library system supplier in the UK to introduce EDI, Talis has also scored another first by becoming the first system provider to cater for the full electronic library supply chain process.
Talis has been able to provide this industry first by integrating EDIFACT Invoice Messaging into the existing EDI capabilities of its Library Management System. This is in addition to handling quotes, orders and order acknowledgements.
The EDIFACT (EDI for Administration Commerce and Trade) system works by sending a structured exchange of data, called a message, from one computer application to another. This enables commercial organisations to set up fully integrated business systems and automate their entire transaction processes.
Libraries with the Talis Library Management system will be able to receive electronic copies of invoices from enabled suppliers.
Once invoice data is received by the library system, it is automatically imported into the acquisitions system and can be subsequently exported to the purchase Ledger run by the Library Authority. Benefits to users include:
- No re-keying of invoice information
- Streamlined workflow and improved productivity
- More accurate data
Commenting on the new application, Terry Willan, Product Manager at Talis said, 'Talis is committed to delivering facilities to libraries that improve their productivity and enable them to be more cost-effective."
"EDI is a major enabler of such facilities and Talis continues to contribute towards EDI standards development and to work with libraries' trading partners and value-added network providers to deliver the benefits to libraries."