AAFES letter

"Dear Supplier Community,
AAFES fully supports the global data synchronization initiative. We believe the efficiencies derived from synchronizing our data will improve and strengthen our supply chain with your organization. We previously launched this initiative with a focus on new product introductions. We are now expanding our initiative, focusing on synchronizing the items currently in our warehouse stock assortments. Our rollout team understands that if you are not currently engaged in data synchronization, the process can be lengthy. We expect that you will begin this process by joining a data pool. Once you’ve selected your data pool, you “must” ensure your data is accurate. Take the time to validate and cleanse your data prior to publishing. Accurate dimensional data is of high importance to us. Our Retek replenishment rollout begins during the first quarter of 2008; we must have all data synchronized prior to the rollout. It is our expectations that you will complete Step 1 by September 1, 2007.

Step 1: Sign-up for a Data Pool. (If you already have a Data Pool, proceed to Step 2)
Step 2: Follow the step-by-step instructions on how to comply with AAFES’ data synchronization initiative. For your convenience, these instructions are available online at http://www.gxs.com/aafes/gdsn.pdf.  You may choose any GDSN-Certified data pool. AAFES has partnered with GXS to provide 1SYNC Onboard Support services if you are interested in using 1SYNC as your Data Pool solution. GXS will be following up with you to provide information about the 1SYNC Onboard Support service and answer questions. If you prefer, you may contact GXS directly at 800.334.5669, option 2105. Once you have completed the data synchronization process with the items you supply to AAFES, the manual option your company is currently using will be phased out. All changes to your item data files must be sent through the GDSN to keep the items in sync. By having accurate, synchronized data in both of our databases, we should achieve economic benefits resulting from fewer invoice/purchase order errors, reduced manual data entry, and faster delivery of new items to our stores. If you have any questions concerning our initiative prior to the initial contact, please contact our e-Business Team at any of the following phone numbers: Adele Kazetta (214-312-4075), Sherry Jones (214-312-4009), or Chris Curtis (214-312-6176).
Thank you for your support and participation.
Margaret A. Burgess
Senior Vice President, Sales Directorate"