FAQs: Comparing X12 and 9XX Ordering

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What are differences in my workflow if I use X12 or 9XX ordering?

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What are the differences in the file and record format?

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Is 9XX Ordering part of the Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) standard?

If you want to purchase the SirsiDynix Symphony MARC Order Record Loader, contact SirsiDynix Client Sales.

What are differences in my workflow if I use X12 or 9XX ordering?

In X12, the order is created in SirsiDynix Symphony and then sent using the X12 order structure. X12 ordering uses a file format associated with Electronic Data Interchange (EDI). When you use the X12 book ordering process, the EDI orderlines are matched with existing MARC records in your catalog. You cannot create new MARC records as part of the X12 EDI process. With X12, you create an order in WorkFlows and send your vendor an X12 formatted order file. When your vendor gets the file, they start to process your order, and information is sent back to your SirsiDynix Symphony system. As materials you ordered are sent to you, your vendor sends an X12 formatted invoice file to your system. EDI invoices may be loaded from the vendor without re-keying any invoice data.

In 9XX, the order is created on a vendor’s website and then loaded using the 9XX order structure. 9XX ordering combines the bibliographic record retrieval with the ordering process. The MARC record itself includes the embedded order data. Your vendor may begin to process your order immediately. Instead of re-keying your order information in SirsiDynix Symphony, the 9XX ordering programs are used to process and load bibliographic data and create order(s). As materials you ordered are sent to you, you enter your receipt and invoice information in WorkFlows as you would with any other order. 9XX is for orders only. Invoicing is not part of the 9XX process. Some vendors might be able to send you an X12 formatted invoice file. Please check with your vendor to see if a mixture of 9XX ordering and X12 processes is a viable option.

What are the differences in the file and record format?

With X12, you are using a file format associated with Electronic Data Interchange (EDI). This file includes specific X12 values that help your system determine which bibliographic (MARC) record your order is associated with. X12 processes MARC (Machine-Readable Cataloging record) data. It does not assist you with the creation of MARC records. X12 invoice files are processed, become SirsiDynix Symphony invoices, and when appropriate are matched with orders in your SirsiDynix Symphony system.

With 9XX Ordering, you are using a MARC record that includes embedded order data. 9XX Ordering will process and load MARC data, assists you with the creation of new MARC records, and creates orders within your system.

Is 9XX Ordering part of the Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) standard?

X12 is an EDI standard. Banking, retail, other financial institutions, and our library communities use EDI. All of us use the X12 standard of EDI to assist us with order and invoice information.

9XX Ordering is not an EDI standard. Banking, retail, and other financial institutions do not use 9XX processes that assist library communities with ordering procedures.