Reasons behind using cXML PunchOut

As we all know, PunchOut functionality enables B2B customers access their own customized ecommerce site. Often referred to as a procurement solution, it integrates customer’s procurement system with supplier’s catalog. With a single click, without entering any login credentials, the customer gets direct access to his contract catalog. PunchOut ensures tailored procurement meaning pre-negotiated or pre-approved products are accessible directly to every B2B customer. Customized content and timely content updates are the hallmarks of PunchOut.

Negotiated pricing that includes special offers or discounts are accessible only to that particular B2B customer. It gives an Amazon-like shopping experience and simplifies ordering process for both the customer and the supplier. Customers no longer have to hunt through the entire supplier catalog in order to access their contract product. The PunchOut catalog is also completely maintained by the supplier.

cXML is one of the most preferred formats to enable use of PunchOut. One of the most widely adopted B2B protocol, it is a flexible format, easy to implement and promotes interoperability. cXML PunchOut involves transfer of data between customer and supplier in cXML messages. Typically, the catalog content that includes product description, images are in cXML format.

cXML acronym for commerce XML is a language designed for B2B ecommerce. It is used for online exchange of business transactions between procurement applications and suppliers. It defines the structure of business documents such as purchase order.

cXML PunchOut solution provides an easy way to share data between B2B ecommerce applications. Moreover, it allows access to product data that is tailored to their requirements. cXML PunchOut creates a link from one cXML transaction to another. Also due to cXML format, the shopping cart created at supplier’s site can be sent back to the procurement system for approval. No wonder, PunchOut catalogs using cXML connectivity make it easy to do B2B business.