EN 16931, published in 2017, is a European standard that standardises the electronic exchange of invoices within the EU. The aim is to create a uniform basis that facilitates cross-border trade and at the same time promotes the digitalisation of administrative processes. Public contracting authorities in particular are obliged to comply with these requirements - a requirement that has far-reaching implications for the economy.
2. main components of the standard
Semantic data model:
EN 16931 clearly defines which data is contained in a E-bill must be included. This includes the invoice number, issue date, amount and VAT rates. This ensures consistency and facilitates automation.
Technical specifications:
There are standardised formats for data transmission, mostly XML-based. These ensure that invoices can be processed independently of the systems used.
Syntactic bindings:
The standard describes corresponding implementation rules so that the semantic model can be used in various electronic formats such as UBL or UN/CEFACT.
3. obligations and requirements
Who is affected?
The standard is mandatory for public clients, but has broad relevance for the entire economy due to the high need for interaction between companies (B2B).
Compliance criteria:
- Use of structured, electronic formats such as XRechnung or ZUGFeRD.
- All relevant mandatory information must be correctly structured.
- Compliance with technical standards for interoperability.
4. benefit of the standard
Interoperability:
Uniform standards facilitate collaboration between different IT systems - regardless of country or software provider.
Efficiency:
Automated invoice processing saves time and reduces errors. In addition, the administrative workload is significantly reduced.
Promotion of digitalisation:
The introduction of the standard is a step towards digital transformation and transparency in financial processes.
5 Critical considerations on implementation
Despite the advantages, there are challenges:
- Complexity in the Changeover: Companies often have to extensively customise existing systems.
- Different national formats: Whilst XInvoice is optimised for the German market, formats such as ZUGFeRD additional options for hybrid solutions. This can lead to confusion.
- Training requirements: Employees need to be familiarised with new processes and systems.
6. practical examples and recommendations for action
Successful applications:
Companies that rely on standards such as EN 16931 report faster billing processes and fewer errors in the billing process. accounting.
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Accounting, Accounting, financial accounting, accounting