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.