Short answer
E-invoices are ideal for automation because the data is already structured. The system receives the XML from the e-invoicing channel, matches it against orders and supplier data, sends it for approval if needed and books it in accounting without retyping. A person only sees the exceptions.
The process
- Receiving — e-invoices from a Peppol access point, the e-address or another channel arrive in one place.
- Validation — does the XML comply with the standard, and do the amounts add up?
- Matching — the invoice is linked to an order or contract and, if needed, to the delivery document.
- Approval — only for invoices that break the rules or exceed a limit. See how to automate approvals.
- Booking — the data goes into the accounting software through an integration.
- Archive — the XML and PDF are kept as the supporting document.
E-invoices and PDFs in one flow
While not every supplier sends e-invoices, it’s practical to build one flow in which e-invoices are read directly and PDF invoices with AI. See how to automate invoice processing.
The benefit
The biggest gain comes when e-invoices are connected to your order and inventory data — then the accountant only checks genuine discrepancies.