Converting CSV, XLS or TXT Formats to EDI 834:
A Detailed Guide

In today’s video guide or tutorial, we’ll be diving deep into working with the conversion of EDI 834 formats, specifically toggling between CSV to 834 and the reverse, 834 to CSV. Also, XLS and TXT data will be converted to an EDI 834 file format as well.

The Basics of Conversion

The process for converting different formats to the EDI 834 transaction format is largely consistent in PilotFish. It involves switching out a Transformation Module and aligning various inbound data points to an EDI 834 data mapping.

From CSV to 834: An Overview

The core of this conversion relies on PilotFish’s 7-stage Assembly Line process:

• Source System: Mainly for documentation. For our demonstration, it is named “CSV inbound” and uses a CSV icon for easy identification.
• Listener: This is how data is introduced into the transaction framework in PilotFish. Our Listener waits for a file named “834” with a .csv extension, which contains the data we need.
• Source Transformation: Here, the CSV file is converted to XML. You’ll set up the format (CSV to XML) and specify the delimiter (typically a comma, but it can also be pipe delimited or some other character). Naming the columns aids in the data mapping later on.
• Routing: With one Target on each side, our routing rule simply directs to all Targets. More intricate routes could be set up if necessary.
• Target Transformation: This is where mapping occurs. Using the 3-pane data mapper, CSV data is translated into an EDI format.
• Transport: The EDI Transformer is applied, converting the EDI XML into a standard flat EDI file. This is saved to an output directory on the disk.
• Target System: Again, mainly for documentation purposes. For our demo, it is named “834 Outbound” and uses an X12 EDI icon for identification.

Testing and Visualization

After setting up the mapping, testing ensures that the data flows correctly:

• Sample Data: Sample data helps in testing the process. It can be copied from the Testing Mode in the eiConsole.
• Real-Time Testing: Once testing begins, the goal is to iterate by dragging & dropping until all needed segments are adequately filled out.
• File Output: The system writes an EDI file to the disk, allowing you to inspect the transformed data directly.

Adapting the Process for Other Formats

The underlying steps remain largely unchanged when converting other formats like TXT or Excel to EDI 834:

• TXT/Excel Input: Depending on the input, the initial file will differ, but the transformation process remains consistent.
• Transformation: While the specifics of Excel (binary file) and CSV (text) might vary, their transformation into the XML format looks very similar. The mapping process adjusts based on the differences between Source data names in CSV versus Excel.

Transition from TXT to Other Formats

• The procedure for transitioning from TXT is largely consistent across various formats.
• In the video, a flat file is used as an example:
  • This flat file is tab-delimited and newline-delimited.
  • The conversion method for this type of file is very similar to a CSV.

PilotFish Highlights

• When working in PilotFish, many times, only the Source transformation will change.
• Target transformations might require adjustments if column structures alter.
• Many transformations can be reused with slight tweaks.
• This reuse can save significant time; for instance, you can copy and paste mappings.
• Sample data can be a handy reference during transformations.

Transforming to an EDI 834 File

• The process of transitioning to an EDI file is shown.
• Transitioning from an EDI 834 to CSV is even simpler with PilotFish than the other way around.

Setting up the Listener

• A Directory Listener picks up an 834 file.
  • This file is configured to an 834 input directory.
• The objective is to transform EDI to XML.
  • X12 table data can be utilized to gain more contextual information about EDI.
  • Specific configurations, such as turning off friendly naming and code definitions, might improve performance.

Mapping the Data

• The core activity in this route is in the Target Transform.
• The objective is to create a mapping inverse to what was done with the CSV.
  • The left side holds the EDI data, and the right side hosts the CSV data.
  • Users can drag & drop from the source to the Target to establish mapping connections.
  • This process is further demonstrated using the XCS data and Loop 2000 segments.

Testing the Route

• After establishing the mapping, it can be tested in real-time.
  • The 834 XML data gets converted back to a CSV format.
  • Finally, the data is written to the disk.
• The video also guides viewers through validating the transformation by checking the resulting file on the disk.

Conclusion

• Whether you’re converting from CSV, TXT or even an Excel document, the basic principles of conversion to an EDI 834 format are consistent. More detailed tutorials are available online for users seeking in-depth insights on our Knowledge Hub website. With the right tools and understanding, this process is smooth and efficient with PilotFish’s Integration Engine.

X12, chartered by the American National Standards Institute for more than 35 years, develops and maintains EDI standards and XML schemas.