What is a Peppol Service Provider?
A Service Provider is the company that helps you with Peppol eInvoicing. From technical connection to full support - discover what they do and how to choose the right one for your organization.
A Peppol Service Provider is a company or organization that is certified to offer Peppol services. They provide the technology, support and guidance you need for eInvoicing via the Peppol network.
Certified Partner
Service Providers are officially certified by Peppol authorities and offer reliable service delivery with guarantees and support.
Complete Service Delivery
From technical connection to training and support - Service Providers offer everything you need for successful Peppol implementation.
Personal Support
Unlike the technical Access Point functionality, a Service Provider offers personal guidance and customer service.
What is a Peppol Service Provider Exactly?
A Peppol Service Provider is a company that has been certified by a Peppol Authority to offer Peppol services. Think of them as your "Peppol partner" - the company that helps you successfully implement eInvoicing via the Peppol network.
What does a Service Provider do for you?
Service Providers are your guide in the world of Peppol. They help you with:
- Advice & Planning: Determining which Peppol solution suits you
- Technical Implementation: Connecting your system to the Peppol network
- Training & Support: Teaching your team to work with Peppol
- Ongoing Support: Help desk and problem solving
- Updates & Maintenance: Ensuring everything stays up-to-date
- Compliance: Ensuring you meet all requirements
In essence, Service Providers take away the complexity of Peppol, so you can focus on your core activities while they ensure your eInvoicing runs smoothly.
Difference: Service Provider vs Access Point
It's crucial to understand the difference between the company that provides you the service (Service Provider) and the technology that is used (Access Point):
| Aspect | Peppol Service Provider | Peppol Access Point |
|---|---|---|
| What is it? | Company/organization delivering services | Technical functionality/gateway |
| Who you have contact with | Direct relationship, customer service | No direct contact, works automatically |
| What you get from them | Complete service delivery + support | Technical connection to Peppol |
| Contract relationship | You have contract with Service Provider | Part of the service |
| Billing | Service Provider invoices you | No direct costs (via provider) |
Overview of Service Provider Services
Service Providers offer a combination of basic services (that everyone needs) and optional services (depending on your specific needs):
Basic Services (Standard with all providers)
Access Point Functionality
Technical connection to the Peppol network for sending and receiving eInvoices.
BasicPeppol ID Registration
Requesting and managing your unique Peppol identifier to be discoverable on the network.
BasicTechnical Support
Help desk for technical questions and problem solving in case of failures or connectivity issues.
BasicCompliance Monitoring
Ensuring your Peppol connection meets all current technical and legal requirements.
BasicOptional Services (Extensions depending on your needs)
Implementation Guidance
Project management and hands-on support when connecting your systems.
OptionalTraining & Workshops
Training your employees in the use of Peppol and eInvoicing best practices.
OptionalReporting & Analytics
Dashboards and reports on your eInvoicing volumes, performance and trends.
OptionalCustom Integrations
Specific connections with your ERP, workflow systems or other business software.
OptionalManaged Services
Complete management of your eInvoicing processes, including monitoring and optimization.
OptionalDifferent Types of Service Providers
There are different types of Service Providers, each with their own specialization and target audience:
Software Vendors
Providers of accounting software who have built Peppol functionality into their systems.
- Integrated in your familiar software
- Simple activation
- Often competitive prices
- Familiar interface
Specialized Peppol Providers
Companies that focus entirely on Peppol service delivery and eInvoicing solutions.
- Deep Peppol expertise
- Flexible solutions
- Extensive functionality
- Personal guidance
ICT Integrators
Technical partners who offer Peppol as part of broader ICT service delivery.
- Complete ICT support
- Custom integrations
- Enterprise solutions
- Local support
How Do You Choose the Right Service Provider?
The choice of a Service Provider depends on various factors. Here are the main considerations:
Evaluation Criteria
- Technical Compatibility: Works well with your current software
- Functionality: Offers all features you need (now and in the future)
- Support & Service: Quality of help desk and personal guidance
- Value for Money: Transparent pricing and fair terms
- References: Experience with organizations similar to yours
- Implementation Approach: How they help you with the transition
Advice per organization type
- Small businesses (1-10 invoices/month): Software vendor with built-in functionality
- SMEs (10-500 invoices/month): Specialized Peppol provider for more features
- Large organizations (500+ invoices/month): ICT integrator or enterprise specialist
- Complex IT landscape: Partner with strong integration expertise
Ready to find the right Service Provider?
Now that you understand what Service Providers do and which services they offer, you can make an informed choice. Compare different providers and find the partner that perfectly fits your organization.
Peppol.nu - Your guide in the world of eInvoicing
