Abstract
This article explores the role of electronic data interchange (EDI) in retail supply-chain management. the benefits that EDI can offer retailers in assisting them in supply-chain management activities is highlighted. Then, the history and development of EDI over the years, as well as current practices, are reviewed. the article finally addresses the shortcomings and problems associated with EDI systems, as well as the growing need to integrate evolving Web-based technologies into legacy systems.