Merging EDI With JIT: The Impact On U.S. Manufacturing

Abstract

Electronic data interchange (EDI) has brought numerous benefits to users with its ability of instantaneous information transfer.  An emerging issue has been the impact of EDI on the U.S. manufacturing industry which has been implementing just-in-time (JIT) manufacturing at a growing rate.  As EDI compliments JIT objectives it is changing the way many companies are doing business.  This paper addresses the advantages, limitations and future impact of this powerful combination.  Further, a model of information flow in an ideal EDI/JIT system is presented and organizational factors critical for successful development and implementation are identified.