In IBM Sterling B2B Integrator, maps play a crucial role in transforming and processing data between different formats, ensuring smooth communication across business partners. Maps allow businesses to convert data from formats like EDI, XML, and flat files to the desired structure for internal systems or trading partners. Let’s explore the different types of maps available in IBM Sterling B2B Integrator and how they enable efficient data integration.
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EDI Maps
EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) Maps are the most commonly used maps in B2B integrations, specifically for industries like retail, automotive, and logistics. EDI maps convert standard EDI messages (like ANSI X12 or EDIFACT) into formats that internal systems can process and vice versa. IBM Sterling B2B Integrator allows users to build and customize EDI maps for documents such as purchase orders, invoices, and shipment notices, ensuring that data flows seamlessly between partners.
Common Use Cases for EDI Maps:
Converting an EDI 850 (Purchase Order) into a format your ERP system can process.
Translating an EDI 856 (Advanced Shipping Notice) from a supplier into an internal shipment record.
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XML Maps
XML Maps handle data in XML format, which is widely used for web-based applications, e-commerce, and system integrations. XML maps in IBM Sterling B2B Integrator enable the transformation of XML messages into other formats like EDI, flat files, or internal application formats. They are useful for businesses integrating with modern e-commerce platforms or exchanging data with systems that prefer XML-based communication.
Common Use Cases for XML Maps:
Converting XML order data from an e-commerce platform into an EDI purchase order.
Mapping customer XML data into a format compatible with internal CRM systems.
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Flat File Maps
Flat File Maps are used to process and transform data stored in plain text formats, such as CSV or fixed-width files. Many legacy systems and financial institutions still rely on flat files for data exchange, making flat file maps essential for companies that need to integrate these systems with modern B2B processes.
Common Use Cases for Flat File Maps:
Converting CSV files from a partner into structured XML or EDI formats.
Transforming internally generated flat files into formats required by external systems.
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Database Maps
Database Maps allow businesses to map data directly from or to a database. This is particularly useful for companies that store data in relational databases (like Oracle, MySQL, or IBM DB2) and need to retrieve or insert data into these databases as part of their B2B transactions.
Common Use Cases for Database Maps:
Pulling order data from a database and converting it into an EDI format for sending to a supplier.
Inserting data from a partner’s EDI message directly into a company’s order management database.
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IDoc Maps
IDoc (Intermediate Document) Maps are used for integrating SAP systems with IBM Sterling B2B Integrator. SAP’s IDoc format is widely used for data exchange between SAP systems and external partners. IDoc maps help businesses that rely on SAP systems for ERP functions to communicate with partners who use different data formats.
Common Use Cases for IDoc Maps:
Converting an EDI purchase order into an SAP IDoc format for order processing.
Transforming SAP-generated IDoc messages into XML or flat files for external partners.
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JSON Maps
With the growing use of APIs and web services, JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) Maps are increasingly important for B2B integration. JSON maps enable the transformation of JSON messages into other formats like XML, EDI, or flat files, allowing businesses to interact with modern applications and services that use RESTful APIs.
Common Use Cases for JSON Maps:
Converting JSON data from a web service into an XML format for internal systems.
Mapping JSON payloads from an e-commerce platform into an EDI format for supply chain transactions.
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Custom Maps
IBM Sterling B2B Integrator also allows businesses to create Custom Maps tailored to specific requirements. These maps can combine multiple data sources, handle complex business rules, and address unique data transformation needs. Custom maps provide flexibility for companies that need to integrate non-standard data formats or highly specialized processes.
Common Use Cases for Custom Maps:
Integrating multiple data formats from various sources into a unified structure.
Creating a map to process proprietary file formats for niche industries or partners.
Conclusion
The wide variety of maps in IBM Sterling B2B Integrator offers businesses the flexibility to handle data transformations across diverse formats and protocols. Whether it’s EDI, XML, flat files, or JSON, these maps ensure smooth data flow, enabling seamless partner integration and improved operational efficiency. Choosing the right type of map for your business needs is essential for optimizing B2B communications and achieving a streamlined supply chain.