PeopleSoft eSettlements Overview

Buyer Direct Model

In this implementation, a single buying organization (buyer) controls the application. This model is based on a one-to-many relationship: one buyer provides an interface for many suppliers. A buyer deploys this model by requesting—or requiring—that its suppliers post invoices to the system. The PeopleSoft eSettlements application functions as an invoice settlement solution in which electronic invoices—including supplier self-service invoices—combine with online dispute and resolution, workflow, email notifications, and electronic payments to enable real-time collaboration with suppliers. Suppliers can directly access invoice status and payment information using the internet—minimizing disruptive inquiries and lowering support costs—and the buyer can effectively manage all aspects of invoices, disputes, and payments. Advantages of this model include visibility of business processes, decentralization of approvals, extended payables visibility to selected suppliers for self-service electronic invoices, and collaboration in reconciliation and issue resolution. The entire payables process is streamlined, reducing administrative costs, minimizing disputes, and enabling faster settlement.

Business Service Provider Model

In this implementation, a consolidator controls the application. This model is based on a many-to-many relationship: a consolidator hosts the system and provides an interface between multiple suppliers and buyers. The consolidator acts as a trusted intermediary, collecting or aggregating invoices from multiple suppliers for multiple buyers. This structure eliminates the need for a point-to-point connection. The consolidator setup varies from market to market, depending on the needs of the buyers and suppliers in each industry the consolidator serves.