Matching the current dynamic of the e-Invoicing industry, the agenda focused both on Globalization as well as Localization while also including Interoperability among e-Invoicing Service Providers to better serve their customers.
For context, GENA is the new name for the EESPA (European E-Invoicing Service Providers Association). The assembly strongly reaffirmed the rebranding as the association now includes members from around the globe (not just Europe), and adding members from more fields beyond pure e-invoicing service providers. The membership now includes major tax and accounting firms including the Big Four and large corporations such as Amazon, IBM, SAP and Sage. Evidently, the scope of document digitization has expanded beyond just invoicing.
Globalization and Localization
Reports from a growing number of local chapters including Germany, the Nordics, Italy and the Middle East added local spotlights. At the same time, experiences from an international pilot between Singapore and the Netherlands, an overview on the Nordics “Smarter Government” initiative as well as discussing the Internationalisation of the ViDA initiative by the European Commission reflect the global range of e-Invoicing.
GENA “Peppol Incubation project” for Enhanced B2B interoperability between service providers
Michael Walther, co-founder of The Invoicing Hub and consultant for GENA, attended the General Assembly and presented updates on the ongoing incubation project between GENA and Peppol. This project’s goal is to specifically enhance B2B interoperability among service providers by outlining clear and useful options to move traditional “1-to-1” EDI connections closer into globally interoperable networks like Peppol.
While transitioning traditional EDI traffic to a multi-lateral network like Peppol all the way would also involve disruptive changes like shifting from an EDI format to UBL XML or adopting public advertisement of receiving capabilities, there are less intrusive and more moderate, yet beneficial, degrees of enhanced interoperability thinkable. To assist service providers and companies in tackling this transition, the incubation project offers a structured approach, enabling participants to pause at any stage while still reaping immediate benefits. And considering the many legislative changes coming up in the Continuous Transaction Control (CTC) space for VAT collection, interoperability between Service Providers needs to offer higher levels of functionality in the (near) future in any implementation model.
OpenPeppol & GENA potential merger
Additionally, the potential merger between OpenPeppol and GENA, which was mentioned during the Peppol conference on May 29-30, was also discussed at the GENA General Assembly. A joint statement from both associations is expected soon, providing more details on this development.
The gathering in scenic Utrecht, NL, gave ample opportunity to the more than 70 attendees to informally discuss the latest developments and exchange views on how to work better together in the interest of our customers. After all, interoperability is all about collaboration in the face of competing with each other to offer the best value to their customers.
