When businesses look for a B2B integration service provider, they’re often seeking ways to streamline operations, enhance security, and drive growth. Selecting the right provider isn’t just about choosing an EDI vendor experienced with the trading partner you need to connect to—it’s about making sure the solution aligns with business strategy, security needs, and the ability of staff to use it effectively. It means stepping back and looking at your digital transformation goals and aligning them holistically to your business.

I don’t address whether you need a VAN solution and an iPaaS, or alternatives, every business is different. But I hope to raise the point that the topic of ‘security’ in your supply chain goes far beyond whether AS2 is worth the cost. The series ignores whether your company engages in higher level replenishment programs like, VMI, or if you should engage in PunchOut, or plan to take advantage of the sales/inventory usage data your retailer or trading partners send. All of those topics need to be addressed, and are unique to each company. I really just created a basic checklist of questions to address a question, “What are the key considerations when selecting a B2B integration service provider?“

To make sense of this broad question, we’ve broken it down into three critical areas:

• Geopolitical and Security Threats
• Improve Sales and Reduce Operational Costs
• Beyond Business Improvements and Security

Technology + People: The Key to Digital Transformation

One crucial factor that ties all three topics together is the human element. Technology alone doesn’t create efficiency or security—people do. That’s why businesses must invest not just in B2B integration solutions, but also in the training and tools that allow employees to take full advantage of them. I read lots of content from our industry that talks about API, AI, or other system improvements and in every single instance, the companies who up-tool and train employees win.

An advanced integration solution that improves order processing is only valuable if employees understand how to use it effectively. The key takeaways are:

• Digital transformation is not just about buying new services—it’s about empowering employees to make better decisions.
• Training programs should be implemented alongside new technologies to reduce any learning curves and hit the ground running.
• Businesses should invest in user-friendly tools that make adoption easier.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right B2B integration service provider requires a broad perspective that includes security, efficiency, and long-term strategic goals. But most importantly, companies must ensure that their teams are prepared to leverage these technologies effectively. Digital transformation isn’t just about what you buy—it’s about how well your people can use it.

By considering all these factors together, businesses can position themselves for success in an increasingly interconnected and unpredictable world – but to be sure – reach out to integration providers and have the conversation.