There are two types of WEB EDI: in one of them, the WEB is used as a communication channel, with automatic up- and downloads of EDI messages. In this case WEB EDI is used not as an EDI conversion and transmission service, but as an automatic tool for EDI transmission. This interpretation of WEB EDI does not detract from automaticity.

In the other interpretation of WEB EDI - and generally this is the one referred to as WEB EDI or WEB EDI service - there is also an EDI converter “behind” the WEB, which converts messages that use various EDI standards into web displays in a legible format - in most cases into electronic forms. At first glance, this type of WEB ED seems attractive, as it offers a simple and economic solution to the problem of EDI conversion, and by-passes the need to connect the partner into a proprietary business management system. However, with this “saving” the essence of EDI - the automatic link between business management systems - is lost. WEB EDI was once hailed as a “cutting-edge solution” for integration, but due to its lack of automatisms this enthusiasm has waned. It offers a good solution for suppliers with smaller turnover and without minor business management systems, but with the increase of sales it can only offer a temporary solution in terms of manageability.