Middleware-Free, Bi-Directional File Integration Between Oracle OTM and a Custom ERP
A US-based manufacturer needed a cost-effective way to integrate Oracle OTM Cloud with its custom ERP system (Decade) to streamline shipping operations without middleware. CES delivered a bi-directional, XML-based batch integration using a shared directory and reverse proxy, enabling secure file exchange, operational control, and order reprocessing.
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The Challenge
Cloud OTM–ERP Integration Without Middleware
Guaranteed Delivery with Secure Connectivity
the client
Manufacturing (Sinks, Faucets, Kitchen Cabinetry)
Technology Stack
- Oracle OTM Cloud
- Custom ERP (Decade)
- XML
- Shared Directory
- Reverse Proxy Scripts
Solution Area
- Oracle OTM–ERP Integration for Shipping Operations
the impact
Streamlined Shipping Operations
Cost-Effective XML Integration
Secure, Controlled File Exchange
Order Reprocessing on Demand
The shift was integration-led. The result?
Controlled, cost-effective shipping execution.
The Need
The manufacturer needed a reliable, batch-mode integration between Oracle OTM Cloud and its custom ERP system to support day-to-day shipping operations. Leadership wanted a file-based model that could exchange shipping data in both directions, avoid the cost and complexity of middleware, support guaranteed delivery, and ensure secure connectivity between the cloud-based TMS and the on-premise ERP.
Challenges
- Cloud OTM Integration Without Middleware: The organization needed to integrate Oracle OTM Cloud with an on-prem custom ERP (Decade) without introducing a middleware platform, while still maintaining control and traceability.
- Bi-Directional, Batch File Exchange Requirements: Shipping information had to move in both directions between systems on a periodic, batch basis, requiring a consistent file format and reliable orchestration of inbound and outbound flows.
- Guaranteed Delivery and Security Constraints: The design needed one-time guaranteed delivery of messages and a secure way to connect the on-premise environment to Oracle OTM in the cloud, without exposing internal systems.
CES implemented a shared-directory, XML-based batch integration between Oracle OTM Cloud and the custom ERP to enable secure, bi-directional shipping data exchange without middleware.
Shared Directory Model
- Intermediate shared directory enabled batch file exchange between Oracle OTM and ERP.
- Eliminated the need for middleware and enabled reliable, periodic processing.
Oracle OTM → ERP Inbound
- Oracle OTM dropped shipping files into the shared directory.
- ERP programs picked up and processed data into Decade.
ERP → Oracle OTM Outbound
- ERP generated XML files for outbound data.
- Files stored in the shared directory for Oracle OTM consumption.
Security & Connectivity Controls
- Reverse proxy enabled secure cloud-to-on-prem access.
- Credentials stored within programs; only shipping data exchanged.
Operational Control & Reprocessing
- Supported order-level reprocessing in batch mode.
- Maintained reliability without changing integration design.
- Streamlined Shipping Operations – Oracle OTM and the custom ERP now exchange shipping information reliably in batch mode, improving day-to-day execution.
- Cost-Effective Integration Model – XML-based, file-driven integration avoided middleware licensing and reduced overall integration spend.
- Secure, Controlled Connectivity – Reverse proxy and in-program credentials addressed security concerns while maintaining connectivity between cloud and on-premise systems.
- Bi-Directional Data Exchange – Shipping data moves between Oracle OTM Cloud and the ERP in both directions, supporting complete transportation workflows.
- Reprocessing on Demand – The ability to reprocess individual orders improved operational control and reduced the impact of exceptions.
strategic client partner
Take the Next Step
Looking to connect cloud-based transportation systems with legacy or custom ERP platforms without adding middleware overhead? Let’s design a file-based Oracle OTM integration model that keeps your shipping operations reliable, secure, and cost-effective. Talk to our Strategic Client Partner.
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