Printer
TextElectronic Document Interchange Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is the Department of Purchasing & Supply Management?
The Fairfax County Department of Purchasing & Supply Management (DPSM) is the primary agency responsible for the procurement of goods and services for the County government and Public Schools. DPSM is also the "lead" agency for the implementation of EDI. Office of Finance and Fairfax County Public Schools are also actively participating in the County's EDI program.
2. What is EDI?
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)- A component of electronic commerce. EDI allows business information (e.g., purchase orders) to be transmitted between computers through a secure electronic network in a standardized format.
3. What is a "VAN"?
A Value Added Network (VAN) is third-party company which provides a full range of electronic commerce activities including EDI. A VAN typically acts as an "electronic post office" which receives Fairfax County's electronic purchase orders and then places them in each vendors electronic mail box.
4. What do I need to Implement EDI?
Most vendors can implement EDI by using:
Personal Computer
Modem,
Phone Line
Value Added Network or VAN
EDI/X12 Translation Software
Some know-how...
5. What do I need to begin using EDI or EDI-to-Fax with Fairfax County?
The first step is to complete Fairfax County's "EDI Basic Trading Partner Agreement" (TPA) This document can either be downloaded, requested online or obtained by calling the Department of Purchasing & Supply Management office at 703-324-3226, 711. Once we receive your completed TPA, we will contact you in order to set up a test schedule.
6. Who can I contact to get more information about the County's EDI program?
Either call or E-mail:
Department of Purchasing & Supply Management, Suite 427
ATTN: D'Arcy Roper
Chief, Systems and Customer Services
12000 Government Center Parkway
Fairfax, VA 22035
Voice: 703-324-3256
TTY: 711
E-mail: D'Arcy
Roper
Fax: 703-324-3228
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