Types of System Integration Services
System integration services leverage technologies such as Enterprise Application Integration (EAI), Cloud Integration, Business Process Integration (BPI), Middleware Development, Legacy System Integration, Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA), and System-to-System integration. Here is a comprehensive list of the types of system integration services.
Enterprise Application Integration
EAI is a help-based technology that seamlessly integrates all applications. The goal is to create a uniform way for all systems to interact with each other and share information within an organisation.
For instance, you can combine accounting and human resource management software to automate processes. You may also create a single interface for sales force automation, customer relationship management (CRM), and inventory management systems.
Data Integration
Depending on your sector and goals, system integration can be data-oriented. This type allows you to integrate or consolidate data from multiple sources into a single platform.
Data integration is, therefore, a perfect solution to create a data aggregate from multiple databases to enhance interactive reporting and easier business management. Accessing data from multiple channels (for free) is both time and money-saving.
Cloud Integration
The cloud is a great way to store and protect data from hardware, software, and service failure. Cloud integration services allow you to combine your business' internal resources with the cloud storage system, which enhances scalability and increases security.
Furthermore, cloud integration can aid in developing applications, databases, and websites such as e-commerce stores, customer portals, and other web-based applications. This benefit offers flexibility in integrating multiple systems into the cloud storage system.
Legacy System Integration
If you have outdated tools and systems developed on older technologies, legacy integration allows you to connect these with modern systems.
Legacy integration helps bridge the gap between new and old IT infrastructure, making accessing data stored on outdated systems easier. For example, some systems may be old but irreplaceable due to their intricate information architecture. In that case, you can modernise the legacy systems by establishing communication between them and new systems.
API Development and Integration
Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) are communication protocols that allow two or more software applications to share resources such as data, functions, commands, and events.
API development services help you create interfaces seamlessly integrating with other platforms. Integrating APIs can enable your business to access third-party services without compromising security or performance.
Business-to-Business Integration
Business-to-business (B2B) integration streamlines transactions and document exchange between companies. The integration boosts efficient cooperation between suppliers, customers, and other external partners.
For example, you can connect the supplier's ERP system to a retailer's system to reduce order processing time.
IoT System Integration
With the Internet of Things (IoT), companies connect physical devices and systems, such as sensors, controllers, and IoT gateways. The integration aims to enable automation and improve the way devices interact with each other.
For example, you can integrate product sensors into an IT system to alert stakeholders of malfunctions or risks requiring attention.
Electronic Document Interchange (EDI)
Electronic Document Interchange (EDI) is an EDI system allowing organisations to transfer data securely in a standardised format. The integration of this system automates the exchange and processing of documents such as invoices, purchase orders, and delivery notes.
Integrating EDI ensures your stakeholders access critical information quickly and accurately. It also helps you maintain a paperless environment with real-time visibility throughout the organisation.
Benefits of System Integration Services
The critical role of all the above system integration services is increased efficiency. But with the correct integration approach, you can expect to enjoy these perks.
Higher Profitability
Increased efficiency means completing more projects with fewer resources, thus boosting productivity. Also, with automation, team members don't need to handle tedious tasks manually, allowing them to focus on core activities.
These benefits translate to lesser time spent and high productivity, leading to increased profitability.
Additionally, system integration reduces the cost of keeping up with different systems. Each system requires a different kind of support and maintenance. By connecting systems, you can spend less on support, and more on other areas as all resources are consolidated.
Better Customer Experience
Integrating different systems allows customers to access customer service faster since their information is readily available. Additionally, customers enjoy a better user experience since the consumers can access multiple services from different systems through a single platform.
When customers are satisfied, you will enjoy high loyalty, increased revenue, and a better brand reputation.
Improved Administration
By integrating systems, you can track data to gain real-time insights into organisational performance. In return, you can make informed decisions quickly, keeping you ahead of the competition.
Also, system integration makes it easier for organisations to manage data and track internal processes. This perk will help ensure that all employees comply with company policies and procedures.
Challenges in Implementing System Integration Projects
Despite the numerous perks of system integration projects, the process can be challenging. Studies in 2018 showed that about 70% of integration projects failed to achieve the set goals. Here are some common challenges you may face when working on system integration projects.
Data Silos
Silos are a significant setback when it comes to system integration projects. It is difficult to get a holistic view of the organisation if different departments collect and use data in their sub-systems.
Therefore, while silos are essential to maintain data integrity, it is vital to ensure that data can be accessed throughout the organisation. This tip will help facilitate the integration process and allow stakeholders to access real-time information from one platform.
Lack of Accountability
If different teams are responsible for various sub-systems, it can be challenging to determine who is accountable when something goes wrong. A complete business features numerous stakeholders, from system owners to vendors, and each must take ownership of the integration project.
In this case, if something goes wrong, it will be a case of fingerpointing. To avoid this, ensure everyone is well aware of their role in the project and hold them accountable for any mistakes or challenges to ensure the integration process runs smoothly.
Constant Changes
System integrations require a lot of time and effort. But, the challenge with these projects is that systems are constantly changing, often leading to regular updates in the integration process.
For example, if you take too much time to integrate systems, the process might become obsolete when new technology arrives.
The key to avoiding this is incorporating agile technology and creating an infrastructure that can easily accommodate these changes. Also, hire a team well-versed in the latest technologies to facilitate timely integration.
Inadequate Resources
Integration projects are complex and require a lot of resources, such as skilled personnel and the latest technology. Also, it would help to have adequate funds, skills, and equipment before beginning the project.
Without proper planning, the project may be stalled due to inadequate resources or unexpected costs. Therefore, it is essential to devise a strategy that adequately covers all aspects of the integration process before getting into it.
Difficulty Integrating Legacy Systems
Legacy systems are usually outdated and may lack the capacity to integrate with new systems. Although it is possible to update legacy systems, doing so can be expensive and time-consuming. This issue can be a significant challenge, primarily when operating on a tight budget.
