In cargo document processing through electronic data interchange (EDI), there's only one way to go — CMC's SWIM

The product
SWIM: Software for Intelligent Messaging
An electronic data interchange (EDI) engine that can automatically send and receive messages in standard formats

The client
Adani Port Limited, Gujarat
A new terminal developed at Mundra, in Gujarat, owned by the Adani group of industries. It specialises in liquid and bulk cargo handling.

Software for Intelligent Messaging (SWIM) is an electronic data interchange (EDI) engine developed by CMC. SWIM can automatically send and receive standard messages in formats like EDIFACT, NIC, XML and in-house formats, irrespective of the hardware platforms and physical distances.

The target objective of this initiative was very broad — to deliver an automated and scalable solution for managing new customers and complete cargo document processing through EDI.

Significant business challenges were addressed through this initiative:

	Automation of cargo documentation through EDI for the following: Import general manifestation Export general manifestation Bill of lading Shipping bill Invoice
	Automatic generation of all outbound EDI transactions, like invoices
	Integration with the Cargo Logistics Management System (CALM)

The CMC solution successfully addressed all the business requirements laid down for the initiative.

The messages related to cargo documentation arriving through EDI transactions are effectively processed using SWIM. Outbound messages are automatically created on schedule, based on several user parameters. All the outbound EDI transactions, like invoices generated, are sent to customers through the EDI system.

CMC completed project implementation well within the deadline, using structured project management methodology — including solution design, development, deployment and user training, followed by support. The technical solution handled the synchronisation necessary between the SWIM and CALM (cargo logistics management system). The end result was a fast-track 45-day implementation by CMC.

Technical architecture

	Trading partners (shipping agents, forwarding agents) and other agencies like the customs can send EDI messages in files as per the agreed standards through FTP, email or by using a floppy disk.
	These EDI messages are authenticated, validated (syntax-level validations) and translated by SWIM. The extracted data is passed on to interface programs.
	The interface programs (upload programs) perform application level validations and finally upload valid data into the integrated port management system (IPMS) operational database. All the application-level errors are properly logged for further corrections, and re-uploaded.

	For messages to be sent, the application invokes interface programs. They select the data from the relevant operational database tables of the terminal application and then hand over the data to SWIM.
	SWIM converts the data into an EDI message as per the agreed standards.
	It sends these files (or messages) to the destined partners automatically over the network, if there is a communication channel between the port and the partner (using email or FTP). If there is no communication channel, then the port copies the file manually onto a floppy disk and gives it to the destined partner.

	Automatic retrieval, authentication and validation of EDI messages implemented
	Automatic processing, conversion and translation of EDI messages implemented
	Automatic acknowledgement, logging and archiving
	Eliminates manual mistakes and re-keying of data
	Online error correction facility
	Though automatic, the control still lies with the user