What is it?
Supply chain packages have to compromise between proprietary
mechanisms that give a competitive edge, and the need to
communicate with partners.
In an ideal world, all these packages would be able to exchange
transactions using a common framework, with common dictionaries of
transactions, and common mechanisms for establishing and securing
relationships.
XML promises to provide the means, but so far there is no
universal solution, and different industries have developed their
own approaches. The computer, telecoms and electronics industries,
the pioneers in this field, came together to set up the Rosettanet
standards.
Applications communicate via XML-based message schemas and
process instructions known as partner interface processes (Pips),
which define business processes between trading partners.
Much of the work involves defining, developing and testing the
Pips, and there is also a thriving business in certifying that
applications will work together.
Earlier this year, Rosettanet launched an initiative to spread
the use of its standards to lower tiers in the supply chain by
providing a "system-to-human" interface that allows trading
partners to participate by simply filling out and exchanging
electronic forms.
Rosettanet Automated Enablement (RAE) is being backed by IBM and
Intel, among others, with Adobe contributing the Portable Document
Format for the forms.
On past experience - with Electronic Data Interchange, for
example - multinational manufacturers can be expected to insist
that their suppliers sign up for the programme, so RAE use should
become widespread.
Where did it originate?
Rosettanet is a non-profit organisation with 1,000 company
members in the US, Europe and Asia, mostly in the computer,
electronics, telecoms and allied industries, plus supply chain
software and services specialists.
It was founded in the US in 1998, and subsequently set up
affiliates in Europe, Asia and Australia. It is part of a group of
allied organisations involved in developing and testing codes and
standards, including the Uniform Code Council, testing organisation
E-Business Ready, and the United Nations' Standard Products and
Services Code.
Rosettanet is named after the Rosetta Stone, which is carved
with the same message in both known and unknown languages, and led
to the deciphering of the Egyptian hieroglyphics.
What's it for?
Rosettanet standards are non-proprietary and freely available on
the Rosettanet.org website. As well as Pips, standards include the
Rosettanet Implementation Framework (RNIF), which provides the
exchange protocols, and covers transport, routing and packaging,
security and trading partner agreements.
The common properties of Pips are defined in the Rosettanet
business dictionary and technical dictionaries.
What makes it special?
Despite initiatives such as Rosettanet and Microsoft's Biztalk,
enterprise application integration still consumes a large
proportion of IT spend, and specialists in integrating external
supply chains are in high demand.
How difficult is it to master?
You will need a good grounding in XML, as well as some knowledge
of supply chain management. Experience of SAP, Oracle Applications,
i2 or similar enterprise resource planning, manufacturing or supply
chain software will also be an advantage.
Where is it used?
Companies developing or implementing Rosettanet standards
include BT, Microsoft, Fujitsu, Dell, Cisco, i2, DHL, IBM and
NTT.
What's coming up?
Compliance with EU and other environmental legislation for the
management of IT product lifecycles and disposal is keeping the
Rosettanet community busy.
Training
Free XML training modules are available on the Rosettanet.org
site.
Rates of pay
Supply chain specialists can look for £35,000 and upwards. The
big consultancies have an ongoing requirement for these skills,
with high fees for senior practitioners.