Custom file formats

Purpose

When data exchange with an IC partner uses files – transfer types File location, E-mail, or File location (server) – custom formats can be used. File import and export go through an interface; custom implementations can be picked per partner card.

Business value

• Connect partners that do not use the standard format without changing the core process.
• The exchange format can be defined per partner.
• Extensions can provide external XML or EDI variants without product modifications.

Focus areas

Selection on the partner card

The Import/Export field on the IC partner card picks the implementation. If a custom variant is configured for the partner, it is used automatically on sending and receiving.

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Interface-based design

Import and export use the same interface. Each variant encapsulates its specifics (structure, encoding, field names) and shows up in the selection. For the standard case the default stays active.

Outcome

• Partners with non-standard formats can be connected without workarounds.
• The exchange stays inside the intercompany process rather than being moved to integration platforms.