About FSI and Their Unique Needs
FSI, or Fulfillment Supply Innovation, specializes in streamlined supply chain and fulfillment solutions that make it easier for businesses to get products where they need to go. From procurement and assembly to shipping, FSI focuses on providing efficient, reliable service for clients with multiple locations. They’re proud to assemble all products in the USA, putting quality and customer service at the heart of everything they do.
Handling Complex Data Integration
FSI needed a reliable way to integrate their system with DaVita, allowing them to securely transfer 850 files via FTP. The challenge? Ensuring the smooth exchange of EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) documents between FSI and DaVita in NetSuite. They also had to test the FTP connection and make sure everything was mapped properly for importing and exporting DaVita-specific documents.
The tricky part was that some of DaVita’s documents didn’t follow standard formats, which added extra complexity to the FTP setup and mapping process. Our team had to get the FTP connection right while working in a sandbox environment, with the possibility of making adjustments along the way.
The Challenges of FTP and EDI Mapping with Non-Standard Formats
The tricky part was that some of DaVita’s documents didn’t follow standard formats, which added extra complexity to the FTP setup and mapping process. Our team had to get the FTP connection right while working in a sandbox environment, with the possibility of making adjustments along the way.
Addressing the Challenges of Data Integration
We know that setting up FTP connections and dealing with non-standard documents can be stressful. For FSI, it was crucial to make sure that the transfer of important documents like 850s was accurate and secure. Without proper testing in the sandbox, they could end up with data errors, delays, or disruptions when it came time for their operations with DaVita.
It was also important to get the EDI file mapping right from the start, so they wouldn’t face issues down the line, especially if adjustments were needed for the FTP connection during the go-live phase.
Why FSI Couldn't Afford to Wait
Had these issues not been addressed, FSI would have faced some serious consequences:
Data Errors: Mismatched EDI files could lead to errors in purchase orders and shipments, causing delays or even lost business.
Delayed Go-Live: If the FTP connection or document mapping wasn’t properly tested, the go-live could be pushed back, which would have impacted their ability to work efficiently with DaVita.
More Manual Work: Without the right integration in place, FSI’s team would need to manually intervene more often, slowing down their processes and increasing the chance of further mistakes.
To avoid these issues, we knew we had to take a proactive approach to setting everything up right the first time.
Building a Reliable FTP Setup and EDI Mapping with NetSuite Integration
To solve these challenges, we started by setting up the FTP connection in a sandbox environment, where we could safely test everything before the go-live. We worked closely with FSI and DaVita, requesting sample XML and EDI files to ensure everything was aligned.
Our Step-by-Step Testing and Mapping Process
Once we had the data, we sent sample 850 files to verify the connection and make sure the mapping worked as expected. We also performed a sandbox refresh to keep the testing environment clean, and after the refresh, Talbert recreated essential records like employee details to ensure everything was ready to go.
Throughout the process, we kept communication open with FSI to tweak document handling, including a gradual rollout of DaVita’s PDF files. Although there were some non-standard elements, we made the necessary adjustments and stayed flexible in case the FTP connection needed further changes.
Here’s how we helped:
Secure FTP Setup: We tested the FTP connection thoroughly, ensuring it would work seamlessly in production.
EDI Mapping: We made sure all EDI files were mapped correctly, especially the 850s that were essential to FSI’s business operations.
Ongoing Support: We kept FSI informed every step of the way, ensuring they had all the data needed for testing and making adjustments as required.
A Successful Go-Live and Reliable Integration
Thanks to our detailed planning and testing, FSI had a smooth and successful go-live. The FTP connection and EDI mapping were solid, and the go-live happened on time, with no surprises. Key results included:
Seamless Data Flow: The FTP setup worked perfectly, ensuring that FSI could exchange 850 files with DaVita without a hitch.
Fewer Errors: With everything mapped correctly, there were far fewer manual fixes, and the team could rely on the system to process documents accurately.
Ready for Growth: The go-live went off without delays, and FSI is now set up to scale their business efficiently with DaVita.
FSI’s Experience Working With Us
"Our customer wanted to fast-track an entire EDI integration. Our Celigo rep recommended Hairball since they might be able to start on the project much more quickly. Our Hairball engineer, Alex, worked quickly and accurately to keep pace with our customer’s demands. Our integration works flawlessly, and I would certainly work with Hairball again on our next project."
Wrapping Things Up
We’re really proud of the work we did with FSI, helping them integrate with DaVita and making their processes run smoother than ever. By setting up a reliable FTP connection and automating their EDI mapping, we helped them eliminate manual errors, streamline their operations, and get ready for future growth.
If your team is facing similar integration challenges or manual processes are holding you back, we’re here to help. Just like we did for FSI, we can fast-track your integration and make sure your business is ready for the next step. Explore how we can support your team.
Ready to talk about your next project? Let’s chat and find the best solution for your business.
