Most businesses have either created or bought systems that utilize the WEB and offer an alternative to the traditional format for EDI software. Is this really easier for small businesses? What is lost and what is gained? A simplistic definition of traditional EDI is one that defines both business affiliates as having their own EDI application (which is either Cloud-based or in-house) which changes business documentation to/from EDI documentation and TRANSFERS them via AS2, a VAN, or an ECCP (Electronic Commerce Communications Provider). Web-EDI (also known as a Web-EDI-Portal) is usually defined as an EDI equipped affiliate which offers access to non EDI equipped business affiliates for the purposes of entering their documentation in manually or through a standard interface (e.g. a previously formatted spread sheet). But it consists of Electronic Commerce Service Providers who collect data in the same manner, change to EDI and distribute to the 800 pound gorilla. This is not to be confused with their TRANSFER commands. VANs are recently entering the Electronic Commerce Service Provider company by offering all EDI services so no in-house know-how or specialized knowledge is needed any longer (only the running expenses). Also included in Web-EDI is documentation sent using updated internet technologies, i.e. XML. All of these technologies will concentrate on small providers that do not have the appropriate ERP systems. Our inquiries for survey Has your business as a manufacturer used a Web-EDI system with your providers? Has your business as a supplier used a Web-EDI system with any of your clientele? Would you say that your interaction with Web-EDI is satisfactory or up to your standards? Does your business plan to assess the usage of a Web-EDI system? BUT before we begin to offer our survey to you, we will Incorporate some law and order into our definitions Make clear that we are NOT talking about TRANSPORT which is totally separate topic.