COOL Compliance Making You Sweat?

Conversely, many companies are considering assigning a separate item code to each unique item and country of origin combination. While this approach may appear at first to be the most expedient, companies are learning that the task is costly, time consuming, and unmanageable for both buyer and supplier due to the sheer volume of item codes required. And, assuming this item code explosion can be completed by the deadline, there must now be an electronic relationship set up between partners.

A more expedient, effective, and economical response involves seeking out existing workflow technology solutions that, in addition to their primary purpose, enable a retailer to be COOL compliant. The following describes what you should be looking for in a workable solution.

1. Buyers and sellers map and synchronize their current item master files via a combination of workflow, file exchange, or integration, a process that can be accomplished quickly and efficiently. Vendors can create a separate code for each unique item and origin that will work for all buy-side customers. Buyers can use the current catalog, which has been mapped and synchronized with each vendor. Neither buyer nor seller has to drastically increase their item master file.
2. Buyers and sellers exchange documents electronically using existing electronic workflow processes to send and receive documents from their current systems. One integration enables this COOL workflow with all customers in the system.
3. Accurate COOL codes are included in the normal exchange of documents in the following ways.
   • COOL codes are connected to the appropriate item and shipping location combination, thus assuring accurate documentation in each order, advance ship notice, and invoice.
   • COOL codes are captured at the item and pallet level. A workflow solution can provide the additional integration needed to update the buyer system that links the inbound vendor order to the outbound store order.
   • Items can now be tracked from the store to the manufacturer throughout the supply chain.

The bottom line is that COOL compliance is a reality and has many food retailers, operators, distributors, and suppliers scrambling to meet the deadline. The right technology solution, one that offers collaborative workflow, is an effective way to become compliant.

Abkes is vice president of iTradeNetwork. Reach him at [email protected] or (402) 998-4170.