About XML

eXtensible Markup Language (XML) is a relatively new language that allows users to define information about data structures and content inside a document in a standard way.

XML is Data about Data.

XML combines some of the strength of EDI and Hyper Text Markup Language (HTML), as it allows data to be processed by computer applications as well as being displayed in a readable format by browsers. In contrast to EDI which is batch process, XML allows for the exchange and validation of data structures interactively.

XML and EDI

The use of Extensible Markup Language (XML) will significantly extend the use of EDI by making it easier to send/retrieve standard EDI documents via browser-based solutions. Encapsulation of standard EDI transactions in XML messages for transport purposes does not mean that we deal with a totally new concept and that we do not need EDI any more. On the contrary, XML is just a new and promising technology that will make the use of EDI easier and less expensive.