What is system integration, and why might you need it?

Most enterprises now use many different IT systems, often alternatingly. Particular areas of business activity are supported by various IT programs that other companies may provide. IT systems integration aims to connect them with each other in a way that allows the free exchange of resources. What is system integration, and what are the benefits?

Systems integration – what is it?

System integration, as the name suggests, combines all a company’s IT systems (technology, applications, and software) into one system common to all of them.

Integration of IT systems is a comprehensive service that includes identifying the client’s business needs, designing solutions, and implementing them in a company. Examples of tools used for system integration include Oracle Database, Pentaho, webMethods Integration Server, and TIBCO.

Benefits of IT system integration

Integration aims to create a stimulating and secure IT environment simultaneously. Combining multiple systems into one brings many benefits.

1. Data consistency

The integration of IT systems ensures the consistency of the data collected by the company. The integration of IT systems ensures the character of the data collected by the company. The risk of errors and outdated information is minimal as data is not duplicated across multiple systems.

2. Convenience of operation

System integration is the convenience of handling data that is entered and edited in one system and then updated in all the others. One standard system also allows data to be used for various purposes.

3. Data flow

Another benefit of data integration is the streamlining of communication. The combination of many systems into one makes it possible to transfer all information between the company’s employees quickly. One department may not be able to share data with another department.

4. Efficient analysis

Collecting data in one location greatly facilitates their analysis, allowing you to make better decisions based on up-to-date data in less time.

5. Employee productivity

Improving communication also has a significant impact on increasing employee productivity. The integration enables teams to spend time on high-priority tasks rather than low-priority tasks.

6. Save space

Data located in one system saves space needed for their storage. It also reduces the cost of installing and maintaining many programs. Companies also benefit from lower license fees and subscription costs.

7. System Security

Securing a large number of systems is quite a challenge. The integrated system provides the collected data with better protection against potential threats.

What are the types of system integration? Examples

We can distinguish two basic types of IT system integration. They are one-way integration and two-way integration. In the case of unilateral integration, data flows only in one direction – one of the systems sends it, and the other receives it. This type of integration connects the critical areas of the company’s operations. It is a cheaper and simpler solution compared to two-way integration.

Bilateral integration is, in turn, a comprehensive combination of many systems into one. In this case, each of the integrated systems sends and receives data. Despite the higher costs, such a solution is much more effective than one-way integration.

Is IT system integration always possible? The systems that provide API or other data exchange mechanisms are subject to integration. In the absence of API or an alternative form of data exchange, system integration is still possible, albeit more time-consuming.

System integration – an investment that pays off

Systems integration is an expense that brings companies many benefits. Improving data flow, streamlining decision-making processes, and generating savings, for example, related to the purchase of software licenses or data protection – are the reasons for creating one standard IT system in the company. The need to integrate IT systems arises primarily in organizations that collect large amounts of data and use separate systems to support various areas of activity.

Enterprises must meet increasing IT requirements. In their face, system integration, which ensures a constant and uninterrupted flow of data, is a crucial element of business development.