EDI Standard - ODETTE (Organization for Data Exchange by Tele Transmission in Europe)

 The ODETTE (Organization for Data Exchange by Tele Transmission in Europe) standard is a specialized EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) protocol used predominantly in the European automotive industry. It facilitates the exchange of information related to logistics, supply chain management, and procurement between automotive manufacturers and their suppliers.

Overview of ODETTE

1. History and Development:

   • Established: ODETTE was established in the early 1980s by a consortium of European automotive manufacturers and suppliers to create a common standard for electronic data exchange within the automotive industry.
   • Purpose: The standard was developed to streamline communication and improve efficiency across the automotive supply chain in Europe, focusing on logistics, inventory management, and procurement processes.

2. Structure and Format:

   • Message Types: ODETTE messages are known as "files" and correspond to specific business transactions. These messages are used for various logistics-related tasks, such as scheduling deliveries, sending invoices, and managing inventory.
   • Segments: Each ODETTE file is composed of segments, which are groups of related data elements.
   • Data Elements: Segments are made up of data elements that contain specific details, such as quantities, part numbers, and delivery instructions.

3. Commonly Used ODETTE Messages:

   • DELJIT: Just-In-Time Delivery Schedule
   • ORDERS: Purchase Order
   • INVOIC: Invoice
   • DESADV: Despatch Advice
   • RECADV: Receiving Advice
   • INVRPT: Inventory Report
   • SLSRPT: Sales Report

4. Benefits of ODETTE:

   • Industry-Specific: ODETTE is specifically designed to meet the unique needs of the automotive industry, making it highly relevant for automotive manufacturers and their suppliers.
   • Efficiency: By standardizing communication, ODETTE helps reduce errors, improve processing times, and streamline logistics operations across the supply chain.
   • Interoperability: Facilitates seamless communication between different companies and systems within the automotive sector, even when partners use different internal IT systems.

5. Implementation:

   • EDI Software: Companies use EDI translation software to convert internal business documents into the ODETTE format and vice versa.
   • Mapping: Data fields from internal systems are mapped to the appropriate ODETTE segments and data elements.
   • Transmission: ODETTE messages are typically transmitted via secure channels, including Value-Added Networks (VANs) or direct connections, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of the data.
   • Acknowledgments: Confirmation of receipt and processing of messages is often required, ensuring that all parties are informed about the status of transactions.