Information system integration in a business

Businesses often have multiple departments dedicated to different roles. These departments will all gather information. ] The business could consider implementing systems to link all the collected data.


What is business system integration?

Business system integration is the process of connecting internal systems, such as number new clients with the company’s data collection devices and combining information and data into a single location. This helps ensure that business software tools operate together.

E.g., The company has a sales and marketing department. Each has its own customer tracking system. Integrating these systems can put all three departments’ data into the same server. This ensures that the business works with one database instead of multiple with duplicate data.



Why is system integration important?

System integration provides several benefits to a company.

Improved delivery

• It may be easier for employees to improve their delivery with consolidated data.
• It can improve the efficiency of internal processes.
• Improved delivery of services and products may lead to more loyal customers.


Improved operations

• Your company may experience improved efficiency.
• Your company will likely be able to streamline its operational processes.
• Accessing data necessary for locating, packing and shipping orders will be easier to obtain.


Improved connectivity

• Each department having access to the same server can help internal communication.
• This improved connectivity can help the business efficiently share information.


Improved time management

• All the company data can be accessed from one digital source.
• Time can be saved by sending digital paperwork instead of physical paperwork.


Improved efficiency

• efficiency can improve by reducing the number of errors.
• having data in more than one location has the possibility of incorrect data repeatedly being stored.
• having all the company data in one location can cause errors to easily be corrected.



Types of business system integration

There are a few types of system integration that might suit different businesses differently. Some examples are:


Enterprise application integration

• uses a collection of software and digital technology to integrate your data.
• attempts to automate a company’s data.
• operates as a middleware framework (a link between multiple software systems and databases).

Data integration

• Combines data from several sources into one.
• Usually, one master server that has several sources for information.
• When data is accessed, the server finds the necessary information from its sources and returns It to the user in a consolidated form.


Electronic document integration

• Used in business-to-business interactions.
• equips companies to authorize the electronic transfer of documents.
• often uses a standardized formant to create consistent documents.



5 steps for business system integration

1- Assess your company’s requirements.
2- Conduct an analysis of your current system.
3- Design or buy Software infrastructure.
4- Design system integration.
5- Implement the solution.


References

Team, I.E. (ed.) (no date) What is Business Systems Integration and why does it matter?, What Is Business Systems Integration and Why Does It Matter? Available at: https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/business-systems-integration (Accessed: 13 November 2023).