# EDI Transformation File Guide

## 1. Overview

The **Transformation File** defines how the structured XML—created using the **Structure Descriptor File**—is converted into a custom XML format that matches your organization's specific document type or form requirements.

This transformation is performed using **XSLT (Extensible Stylesheet Language Transformations)**, which can be authored and maintained through the **XSLT Editor** in the DocBits interface.

## 2. Purpose and Function

* Transforms the **intermediate XML** (output from the Structure Descriptor) into a **final XML** aligned with your document schema.
* Enables flexibility to accommodate varying EDI partner formats and internal system requirements.
* Built using **XSLT rules**, which allow you to define mappings, value formatting, conditional logic, and structure.

## 3. Access & Basic Editing

#### Accessing the File

1. Go to **Settings → Document Type** → \[Your Document (e.g., *Purchase Order*)] → **E-Doc.**\\

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2. Under the **E-Doc** tab, select your format (e.g., **EDI** ).
3. Click **Transformation** to view or edit.\\

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#### Draft Management

* **Create a Draft**: Click the ✏️ pencil icon.
* **Delete Drafts**: Use the 🗑️ trashcan icon to remove unused drafts.
* **Activate Changes**: Click the ✅ checkmark to publish a version.
  * <mark style="color:red;">**Note**</mark>: Activating a new version will **automatically deactivate** the previous one.

## 4. XSLT Editor

The Transformation File is edited using an embedded **XSLT Editor** that supports syntax highlighting and validation.

* Add templates to map specific paths from the input XML to the desired structure.
* Use conditional logic (e.g., `<xsl:if>`, `<xsl:choose>`) to handle optional or varying data formats.
* Apply formatting functions as needed (e.g., string manipulation, date formatting).

## 5. Preview Function (Preview Transformed XML)

The **Preview Function** allows you to test and preview how an uploaded EDI file is processed using the current **Transformation File**.

#### Usage

* Upload an EDI file via the standard upload flow.
* Copy the **Document ID** of the uploaded file.
* Navigate to the **Transformation File** interface.
* Open the **Preview Function**.\\

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* Enter the **Document ID** into the field and press **Test**.
* The resulting **transformed XML output** will be displayed.

This is especially useful for debugging XSLT mappings and ensuring the final XML structure meets your format requirements.

<figure><img src="https://578966019-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FT2n2w4uDCJvv7CJ5zrdk%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-3b15a9ff28324a11910cd73f9eedf1359347effa%2Fimage.png?alt=media" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## 6. Video Walkthrough

A video guide for this file type is available on the [Videos page.](https://docs.docbits.com/administration-and-setup/settings/global-settings/document-types/edi/edi/edi-videos)\
Use it to follow along with setup, editing, and previewing.\
\\