Inter Database Communication Interface

Hi, I am currently working on an analysis for the best way to exchange data between two databases located on different machines (long distance). Both are on the Informix On-line engine / UNIX . It is done in order to achieve communication/interface between a central distribution package (order entry) and a warehouse management package (ship orders, send receipts back ,coordinate inventory, etc..) . Previously for such a task I had a scheduler on both sides sending / receiving ASCII files by UUCP. Each side would unload the data into the download area and send it , as well load any incoming files from the upload area. What I want to know 1 - Is there a better way of doing this ? 2 - Can I have a temp network connection over a regular phone line ? dbs to dbs connection skip the load/unload/ascii/uucp 3 - Cost / Features / Benefits / Disadvantages ??? 4 - Experiences ? 5 - Are there any products which can help me ? Thank You in advance for any info you can provide. Mariusz Malogrosz TECSYS inc. mariuszm@tecsys.com