Vera Bradley Streamlines EDI and Empowers Teams with TrueCommerce and Microsoft Dynamics 365
The Objective
- Replace legacy ERP and EDI systems with modern, cost-effective alternatives
- Ensure seamless integration with Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance and Supply Chain Management (FSCM)
- Distribute EDI ownership across teams to improve visibility and efficiency
- Execute a remote implementation without disrupting operations
The Solution
Vera Bradley selected TrueCommerce as its EDI partner due to its strong native integration with Microsoft Dynamics 365 FSCM and responsive support team. The solution enabled the retailer to simplify processes, reduce reliance on legacy systems, and empower users across departments.
The Results
- Significant Cost Savings: Reduced expenses tied to legacy enterprise software and Gentran by moving to Microsoft Dynamics 365 FSCM and TrueCommerce
- Seamless Go-Live: Completed ERP and EDI implementation on time and under budget
- Expanded User Access: Broadened EDI visibility across departments with intuitive tools inside Microsoft Dynamics
- High-Touch Support: Received consistent, expert guidance and fast responses from dedicated support contacts
- Streamlined Issue Resolution: Handled peak-season issues quickly through close collaboration with TrueCommerce support
About Vera Bradley
Vera Bradley, Inc. is a leading American lifestyle brand known for its colorful quilted bags, travel items, accessories, and home goods. Founded in 1982, the company has grown into a widely recognized brand with a strong presence across retail, e-commerce, and wholesale channels. Vera Bradley is headquartered in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and is committed to combining functionality and fashion to meet the needs of women on the go.
Rethinking EDI and ERP
For over a decade, Vera Bradley relied on an enterprise-grade ERP system and IBM Gentran for EDI. But the systems were no longer cost-effective or flexible. “We’d been on the same ERP for probably 10 years, and it became extremely expensive,” said Brett Stark, EDI Integration Analyst at Vera Bradley.
In 2018-2019, Vera Bradley made the strategic decision to transition to Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance and Supply Chain Management (FSCM). As the team prepared to transition to Microsoft Dynamics 365 FSCM, they looked for a new EDI solution that could offer more than just message exchange. “Gentran was very dated. We needed something modern, and most importantly, something that integrated well with Microsoft Dynamics 365,” added Stark.
Native Integration That Empowers Teams
As Vera Bradley evaluated potential EDI providers, TrueCommerce quickly rose to the top. “No one else integrated with Microsoft Dynamics 365 like TrueCommerce did,” said Stark. “Other vendors said they did—but TrueCommerce actually had their solution built in. It wasn’t a bolt-on or a workaround.”
That purpose-built integration delivered immediate value: “Having EDI built directly into our ERP makes a big difference. We’re no longer switching between systems—everything is in one place. It saves time, reduces errors, and helps us work more efficiently.” Stark explained
By embedding EDI processes directly into Microsoft Dynamics 365, Vera Bradley was able to distribute responsibilities more broadly across the organization. “It’s not just me managing it anymore,” he said. “AP clerks, planners, operations—they can all see what’s going on with orders and invoices and take action. Our team can do more without needing deep EDI expertise. That’s powerful.”
Remote Implementation, Real Results
The full implementation of both Microsoft Dynamics 365 and TrueCommerce was a success. “The full implementation went really well,” Stark shared. “We came in on time and under budget, which is saying a lot for a project this size.” One of the more demanding and detailed tasks was mapping hundreds of EDI documents from a variety of trading partners and matching custom fields within the ERP, and then feeding documents into the ERP to ensure Vera Bradley could produce purchase orders, and other transactions. “TrueCommerce’s proven implementation approach was key to our success. Their team stayed with us every step of the way—even through the tedious parts—and made sure everything worked exactly as we needed. Their dedication and expertise made a complex process feel seamless.”
A Standout Support Experience
“I’d give the TrueCommerce team an A+—they’ve been fantastic,” Stark said. “It’s not just about fast responses. They take the time to truly understand our goals and work alongside us to make them happen. That level of partnership makes all the difference.”
That partnership proved essential during peak order periods, when small issues—such as ASN hiccups—had the potential to escalate. “When something’s not flowing, support is right there. We’ve never felt like we’re on our own.”
Empowered Teams, Better Outcomes
The new setup has transformed how Vera Bradley handles EDI. “We used to have one person managing everything,” Stark said. “Now, it’s built into our ERP. It’s accessible. Our team can do more without needing deep EDI expertise.” He emphasized how the integration has created efficiencies across departments. “We’re not logging into different systems. It’s all in one place. That saves time, reduces errors, and helps us move faster.”
A Trusted Partner for the Long Haul
Reflecting on the implementation and ongoing partnership, Stark is confident in the decision. “TrueCommerce has been reliable, and they’ve done exactly what they said they would do. That’s rare in tech projects. TrueCommerce isn’t just another EDI vendor—they deliver a real, seamless integration for Microsoft Dynamics 365. If you’re tired of cobbled-together solutions, they’re the partner you want.”
Discover how TrueCommerce can help your business modernize and scale EDI operations. Contact us today to learn more about our Microsoft Dynamics 365 integrations.
