GXS launches Microsoft Excel version of e-commerce grid
1 min read
Business to business e-commerce specialist GXS has launched a version of its Trading Grid that runs seamlessly with Microsoft Office Excel.
Using the Excel 2007 user interface, XML file format structures and programmability, it combines document management and protocol translation capabilities to deliver ‘direct to desktop’ automation for manufacturers and trading partners.
Tom Varghese, senior product manager at GXS, makes the point that, frequently, less than 20% of companies participating in trading partner networks are B2B e-commerce-enabled, while the remaining 80% use a variety of manual processes, including phone, fax and e-mailed spreadsheets.
GXS Trading Grid for Excel has serious potential to change all that, by effectively translating Office Excel 2007 spreadsheets directly into standardised e-commerce transactions that link with ERP systems.
“First and foremost, GXS Trading Grid for Excel is about increasing the options for participating in B2B e-commerce and lowering the barrier to entry,” says Varghese. “Secondly, we want to reduce the volume of errors in the supply chain on behalf of our customers.
“Through greater automation, companies can do business more quickly, more accurately and more efficiently, thereby reducing costs and improving trading partner relationships,” he adds.
Key features of the service include: templates that can be customised to individual businesses’ requirements; built-in data validation; simplified start-up; a web-based portal with real-time status updates and support options.
Varghese says that, with this service, users can gain visibility into document exchanges to quickly and easily assess the status of transactions via Trading Grid Online, GXS’ web-based portal.
