The Distribution Services group of CHAMP Cargosystems (CHAMP) has made available an XML ("eXtended Markup Language") schema that includes definitions of common air cargo industry data. The CargoXML schema is offered as a modern implementation of legacy message content that links together open systems technology and legacy systems.
CHAMP CargoXML
CHAMP recognizes that many software implementors of next-generation systems are left out of the air cargo data exchange community unless they specifically implement difficult legacy protocols and message standards.
The establishment of an industry standard XML schema for air cargo seems to be nowhere in sight. The lack of a standard has many implications leading CHAMP to develop a schema that represents the core information exchanged among supply chain partners. The CHAMP CargoXML schema provides an industry solution that brings open software technology to the legacy community.
Some of the immediate benefits derived from using the CHAMP CargoXML schema are:
- Immediately begin data exchange with legacy systems without requiring knowledge of airline message standards and protocols
- Allows migrating applications from legacy to open systems technology using a phased approach and a mixed technology
- Overcome the constraint of the limited data set defined by legacy standards - the CargoXML schema is completely extendable and opens opportunities for greater data sharing where entire business processes can be handed off to a trading partner
- Using the CargoXML schema can reduce the implementation time (and cost) of new software applications by utilizing modern development tools that make consuming and generating XML content much simpler than parsing and formatting legacy messages
Data Conversion
Implementors that adopt the CHAMP CargoXML schema can begin business-to-business information exchange immediately regardless of the capabilities of the exchange partner. The CHAMP Global Cargo Community System has been updated to convert all CargoXML content to and from:
- CargoIMP
- ANSI X.12
- CargoFACT
- Customer unique formats
- Proprietary formats
- Other XML Schemas
In addition, the CargoXML schema also includes xml representations of the Canada Customs (CBSA) mandatory report content including:
- Air Conveyance Report
- Air Cargo Report
- Supplementary Report
The CargoXML schema allows complete participation by open systems applications among a community of legacy partners.
Data Communications
Just as legacy message formats are difficult to implement in open systems, legacy data communications can be as well.
CHAMP Cargosystems does not dictate which protocol to use. All information exchange among parties using CHAMP Distribution Services have a choice of communication networks and protocols.
Data content may be exchanged using open TCP/IP protocols including:
- FTP
- SMTP
- WebSphere MQ
- MATIP / BATAP
- SOAP over HTTP (limited support - see below)
Each of these exchange methods is just as secure and reliable as legacy protocols.
A note about Web Services (SOAP)
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Web Services are currently available when communicating with specific air carriers. Development of Web Services to extend the range of interfaces to all air carriers connected to the CHAMP Global Cargo Community System is currently in progress.
Building the CHAMP Cargo Interchange Framework
The CHAMP CargoXML schema and interfaces form the basis for a growing environment known as the CHAMP Cargo Interchange Framework ("Framework"). The Framework will increasingly allow software developers to incorporate the core functions of air cargo directly into their applications.
More about this technology will be provided in the near future.
