Electronic Data Interchange

       The Electronic Data Interchange system provides the ability to
       parse X12 standard EDI files and create, modify, and/or report on
       orders and schedules in MPAC order processing systems.  The basic
       functions of the Electronic Data Interchange module are to
       validate inbound EDI files, generate outbound acknowledgements of
       inbound transactions accepted and rejected, post inbound orders
       and forecasts to order entry, purchasing, and master scheduling
       systems, generate responses to inbound status inquiries, and
       generate outbound EDI transactions from activity in the MPAC
       system.  File maintenance functions are provided for trading
       partners, branch addresses, customer item numbers, and value
       added networks.

       Inbound transactions include purchase orders, customer orders,
       change requests, status inquiries, planning schedules, shipping
       schedules, and acknowledgements of outbound transactions.  An
       inbound EDI edit list is provided which will parse the inbound
       EDI file(s) and generate a report of the inbound records along
       with any errors that may be detected.  The inbound EDI register
       will generate a report in the same format as the edit list and
       will also process any valid inbound transactions into the order
       processing modules.

       Outbound transactions include advance shipping notices, invoices,
       status reports, product transfer and resale reports, and
       acknowledgements of inbound transactions.  An outbound EDI edit
       list provides a listing of pending outbound transaction sets.
       The outbound EDI register provides a report in the same format as
       the edit list and creates outbound transaction sets for
       forwarding to trading partners.

       A network connection function forwards transaction sets to value
       added networks.

       Electronic Data Interchange Functions:
               File maintenance functions
               Inbound edit list
               Inbound register
               Outbound edit list
               Outbound register
               Network connection
               System management functions