B2B Integration the BizTalk Way

Every day, your organization interacts with internal and external partners, but what about your business processes? How well are they integrated? BizTalk Server 2009, the latest edition of the BizTalk family, simplifies the integration of business processes between business internal and external partners. While BizTalk Server is loaded with features and adapters, three core components related to B2B integration are worth a closer look: EDI and AS2 support, BizTalk Server Accelerators, and Trading Partner Management.

Microsoft training is highly recommended before implementing a B2B integration. In the meantime, let's take a look at each component:

• EDI and AS2 Support – Businesses still rely on EDI, or Electronic Data Interchange, as a primary means (over 75 percent) of exchanging data electronically. In addition, new standards are emerging with AS2, or Applicability Statement 2, being used for exchanging data over the Internet through point-to-point connections. With built-in EDI and AS2 support and AS2-defined methods in place, BizTalk Server allows for safe, reliable, secure transmissions between partners. In fact, the EDI capabilities also include support for the HIPAA protocol. An IT technician with a MCTS certification has the skills to implement these protocols.

• BizTalk Server Accelerators – BizTalk is used in virtually all industries including manufacturing, health care, and even governmental agencies. BizTalk Server Accelerators are available that add specific functionality and tools for specific industries. This reduces the need for developing, deploying, and managing custom solutions. For the health care industry, the BizTalk accelerator for HL7 allows for the secure transmission of patient data between health care partners. For the financial industry, the BizTalk accelerator for SWIFT delivers secure, reliable, and affordable SWIFT messaging solutions. A third accelerator is geared for implementing RosettaNet, a set of process standards for open electronic business, into your organization.

• Trading Partner Management – Managing a single trading partner is difficult enough as it is, but how many organizations work with just one partner? Not only must your systems integrate with internal partners, they will likely need to integrate with numerous trading partners such as suppliers, vendors, insurance companies, and regulatory agencies. In addition, trading partners often change frequently or have specific processing criteria, further adding to the need for a good management tool. With BizTalk's Trading Partner Management features, you are better able to manage each partner. For example, your staff can modify the business processes for one partner without affecting the processes for your other partners. You can also easily add, configure, and manage new trading partners from within an easy-to-use interface.

If you will be using BizTalk as part of a larger business to business integration, enroll in a BizTalk training course to learn more. CBT Planet is your complete source for your Microsoft BizTalk Server training needs.