The sender sends documents in any format to the access point.
The access point identifies the recipient of the document, and using that information, a query is made to the Peppol central address book (SML). From there, a response is returned indicating which local address book (SMP) the access point can query for more information.
The SMP, which is usually maintained by each individual access point, provides information about the document types and standards that the recipient can handle and the address of the recipient.
When all the information is available, the document is sent to the recipient's access point. This is also where any conversion of the format sent from the sender takes place.
Finally, the recipient's access point forwards the document to the final addressee.
Glossary: Access point = Company or service provider that, like InExchange, forwards documents to another access point. SML = Peppol central address book. SMP = Local address book.
Interoperability in focus
The aim is for systems between operators to be able to talk to each other. The focus is on interoperability (interconnection). In summary, it can be said that Peppol:
Uses an inter-operator agreement model to avoid the complexity of roaming agreements that often exist between operators.
Opens flows to everyone - anyone connected to Peppol cannot refuse an e-invoice, as long as it is correct.
Supports the entire purchasing process, not only invoices but also order catalog and electronic procurement.
Establishes clear SLAs (Service Level Agreements) for the operators involved - what level of service they will provide and how they will deal with errors and discrepancies.
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