The concept of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) was introduced by General Motors in the 1960s.
General Motors, a leading automotive manufacturer, recognized the need for a standardized way to exchange business documents electronically, particularly for ordering parts and materials from suppliers.
This initiative led to the development of the General Motors Interchange Format (GMIF), which served as a foundational framework for EDI.
While General Motors pioneered the concept, the development and standardization of EDI evolved through collaborative efforts involving various companies, industry groups, and organizations, including the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
These organizations played crucial roles in defining and refining EDI standards, contributing to its widespread adoption and integration into global business processes.
