Systems and methods relating to the establishment of EDI trading partner relationships. Sending partners convey a series of data transmissions to a computer system, where they are checked for internal consistency and compliance with applicable trading rules. Data attributes extracted from the transmissions allow the capabilities of the sending system to be ascertained. Differing senders meeting different appropriate qualifications may be issued specific certifications. Receiving partners conveyed a series of EDI transmissions by a third party report the results of receipt and analysis back thereto. From the reported results, the capabilities and accuracy of the receiving system are ascertained. Specific certifications for differing types of receiving partners may then be issued. Trading partners may be matched by capabilities. A directory of trading partner certifications and capabilities may be periodically replicated to selected users. The directory may contain a secure password, allowing users therein to securely identify one another.