By the end of this course, you will be able to:

1. Understand EDI standards (ANSI X12) and their role in global supply chains.
2. Master EDI transactions such as 850 (Purchase Order), 810 (Invoice), and 997 (Acknowledgment).
3. Navigate and use the IBM Sterling B2B Integrator platform.
4. Create, configure, and test maps using Graphical Process Modeler (GPM).
5. Implement inbound and outbound business processes with notifications and envelope setups.
6. Use XML and database mapping efficiently with best practices.
7. Set up secure communication protocols (FTP, AS2, SFTP) for partner integrations.
8. Leverage WebServices, PGP encryption, and SAP/WTX integration.
9. Tune, monitor, and scale IBM B2B Integrator for enterprise performance.

Course Syllabus – EDI and IBM Sterling B2B Integrator

Module 1: Introduction to EDI and Industry Standards

• Fundamentals of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)
• EDI's role in modern supply chain management
• Overview of EDI standards: ANSI X12 and other common formats
• Understanding key ANSI X12 transaction sets (e.g., 850, 810, 997)

Module 2: Introduction to IBM Sterling B2B Integrator

• Overview and architecture of IBM Sterling B2B Integrator
• Navigating the user interface and core functionalities
• System components and integration capabilities

Module 3: Mapping Essentials and Techniques

• Introduction to mapping and its features
• Creating maps: structure, logic, and business rules
• XML mapping fundamentals and use cases
• Database mapping techniques, best practices, and common pitfalls
• Standard rule application and map validation (Parts 1 & 2)

Module 4: Hands-On Mapping Labs

• Sample map creation using MRS (Map Runtime System)
• Implementing mapping indexes and conditions
• Real-time map creation and debugging demonstration
• Troubleshooting user exits and common translation errors

Module 5: Business Process Modeling (GPM)

• Introduction to Graphical Process Modeler (GPM)
• Designing and implementing business processes
• Outbound document extraction and process design
• Inbound process setup with email notifications and envelope configurations
• Outbound envelope creation and multiple business process flows

Module 6: Communication Protocols and Partner Setup

• Understanding and configuring FTP/SFTP communication
• Secure communication using FTPS and AS2
• Working with Resource Manager and generating reports
• Handling acknowledgments and correlations

Module 7: Advanced Integration Scenarios

• Web service integration (Producer and Consumer setup)
• SAP integration within Sterling Integrator
• Configuring the Perimeter Server for secure data transfer
• Implementing PGP encryption and managing code lists via LJDBC

Module 8: Enterprise Integration & Optimization

• Message Queue and WTX integration within Sterling
• Performance tuning, scalability, and system optimization strategies
• Best practices for maintaining high availability and reliability

Upon successful completion of the EDI and IBM Sterling B2B Integrator course, learners will be awarded a Course Completion Certificate, validating their expertise in EDI standards and hands-on proficiency in IBM Sterling B2B Integrator. This certificate demonstrates your capability to design, implement, and manage B2B integration workflows, making it a valuable credential for employers and clients in supply chain, logistics, healthcare, retail, and other integration-heavy industries.

What the Certificate Proves:

• You have a foundational understanding of EDI protocols (such as ANSI X12).
• You can create and manage complex mappings, transformation rules, and business processes.
• You are capable of configuring and supporting communication protocols like AS2, SFTP, FTP, and web services.
• You can troubleshoot and optimize end-to-end B2B transactions within IBM Sterling Integrator.
• You are prepared to contribute to real-world integration projects with confidence.

Benefits of the Certificate:

• Adds credibility to your resume and professional profile.
• Boosts your chances of getting shortlisted for technical interviews and freelance projects.
• Equips you to transition into specialized roles in EDI and integration technology.
• Supports career growth into senior integration consultant or solution architect roles.

Preparation for Further Certification:

Although this course is not a formal IBM-certified program, it lays a strong foundation for pursuing official IBM Sterling B2B Integrator certifications. You’ll gain the necessary theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills to attempt IBM’s professional-level exams or client assessment projects, particularly those that require demonstrated experience in Sterling B2B workflows, mapping, and protocol configuration.

Completing the EDI and IBM Sterling B2B Integrator course opens doors to high-demand roles in supply chain, logistics, retail, healthcare, and finance sectors, where seamless partner communication is mission-critical.

Potential job roles include:

1. IBM Sterling B2B Integrator Developer
2. EDI Consultant / Analyst
3. Integration Specialist (EDI & B2B)
4. Supply Chain IT Consultant
5. B2B Operations Engineer
6. EDI Support Engineer
7. EDI Mapping & Transformation Expert

With organizations increasingly relying on EDI and automated document exchange, your expertise will be instrumental in ensuring reliable, secure, and efficient B2B operations. This course also positions you for specialized consulting roles supporting enterprise integrations and partner onboarding.

1. What is EDI and why is it important in supply chain management?
   EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) is the electronic exchange of business documents between companies in a standardized format. It ensures speed, accuracy, and cost-efficiency in supply chain communications.
2. What are ANSI X12 transactions?
   ANSI X12 is a widely used EDI standard. Examples include 850 (Purchase Order), 810 (Invoice), 856 (Advance Ship Notice), and 997 (Functional Acknowledgment).
3. What is IBM Sterling B2B Integrator used for?
   It is a B2B middleware tool that enables integration, secure communication, and business process automation between trading partners.
4. What is a business process in Sterling Integrator?
   A business process is a set of rules and components defined in GPM (Graphical Process Modeler) to automate EDI workflows such as document routing, transformation, and communication.
5. What is mapping in IBM Sterling B2B Integrator?
   Mapping is the process of translating data between internal application formats and standard EDI formats using rules and structures.
6. What are User Exits in mapping?
   User Exits are custom scripts or functions executed during mapping for data transformation beyond standard logic.
7. Explain the difference between FTP, SFTP, and AS2 in EDI.
   FTP is basic file transfer; SFTP adds encryption; AS2 is a secure internet-based protocol widely used for EDI, ensuring encryption and message integrity.
8. How are inbound and outbound processes handled?
   Inbound involves receiving and translating documents into application format; outbound involves extracting, mapping, and transmitting documents to partners.
9. What is PGP in IBM Sterling Integrator?
   PGP (Pretty Good Privacy) is used for encrypting and decrypting EDI messages for secure transmission.
10. How do you troubleshoot mapping errors?
    Use audit logs, standard rules, and error codes. Common errors include incorrect indexes, structure mismatches, or missing mandatory segments.

1. What is EDI and IBM Sterling B2B Integrator?
   EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) is a system that allows businesses to exchange documents electronically in standardized formats. IBM Sterling B2B Integrator is a comprehensive platform used to manage EDI and non-EDI communications securely across an organization’s trading partner network.
2. Who should take this course?
   This course is ideal for integration developers, EDI analysts, supply chain professionals, and IT consultants who want to specialize in B2B integration and EDI systems.
3. Do I need prior experience in EDI or IBM tools?
   No prior experience is necessary. The course covers EDI fundamentals and gradually advances to IBM Sterling B2B Integrator, making it suitable for beginners and professionals alike.
4. Is the course self-paced?
   Yes, the course is self-paced with high-quality pre-recorded video content, allowing you to learn anytime, anywhere.
5. What is the format of the course?
   The course includes lectures, mapping labs, business process demos, real-time examples, and configuration walkthroughs to ensure practical understanding.
6. Is there any certification provided?
   Yes. Upon successful completion, learners receive a Course Completion Certificate that can be added to your resume or LinkedIn profile.
7. Will I get hands-on training in IBM Sterling Integrator?
   Yes. The course includes real-time mapping labs, business process exercises, and system demonstrations to provide hands-on experience.
8. What career opportunities does this course offer?
   The course prepares you for roles such as EDI Analyst, IBM Sterling Developer, Integration Specialist, and B2B Consultant across various industries.
9. How long will I have access to the course material?
   Once enrolled, you’ll receive lifetime access to all course materials and resources.
10. Is this course helpful for preparing for IBM certifications?
    While it is not a direct certification course, the training provides a strong foundation that can help you prepare for IBM Sterling B2B Integrator certification or client assessments.