In this world of fast-paced technology, software integration can turn out to be a game-changer for any business. Delivering a centralized system of business applications will help enhance business productivity and improve security and also pave the way for business automation. Eliminating data silos and creating transparent workflows can also help you earn the trust of the customers and employees.
Software integration offers a way to connect disparate applications in your environment so that they can work and grow together as the company scales. The process of software integration can offer your company multiple benefits. It can also take your business profitability to new heights. It is extremely vital for larger organizations with a complex IT landscape. It also enhances standardization, reusability and business scalability.
As per Gartner, the data integration software market grew by 9.8% in 2024, to reach 5.9 billion USD. Since then, this value has been continuously on the rise. So, let us take a closer look at what software integration is all about and what are the different software integration techniques.
What is Software Integration?
Let us see what software integration is all about:
What is software integration? Software integration involves connecting different applications in your environment through application programming interfaces, webhooks, or middleware. Once connected, the application can request and share data freely with the other applications. This integration allows organisations to make full use of the different applications for various functionalities. |
Software integration offers interoperability and streamlines the processes across different applications. These days, a myriad of applications are used for integrations like CRM, ERP, etc. The selection of applications that you want to integrate aligns with the unique needs and objectives of the organization. Also, there are different types of software integration and you can choose your integration method based on your exact requirements.
| According to a SAP survey, because of SAP integration, developer efficiency increased by 30%, bringing about enormous business success. |
Core Software Integration Techniques:
Here are some of the core software integration techniques that you need to know:
Application programming interface (API):
Application programming interface (API) is the most frequently used tool for connecting different software solutions. There are different types of APIs available that are either public, private or partner. These APIs make use of a common code language to set functionality and protocols. This allows your application to smoothly transfer data.
Webhooks:
Webhooks are an alternative to API integration. They are tools that link to a web application. However, webhook implementation is not code-based. They have modules and are programmable within the web applications. Webhooks are event-based. They are triggered only when a particular event occurs.
Integration services component (ISC):
ISCs reside on a local server. Unlike code-based integrations, ISCs create a bridge with various on-prem tools like asset management tools, directories, etc. They do not require any kind of file import. Instead, they have enhanced data synchronization options which help in ensuring that your business operations get carried out smoothly.
Orchestration:
Orchestration is a highly automated software integration option. It helps in automating the services and systems. This type of integration is mainly used in complex scenarios. They are used to design workflows that determine how the integration is going to work. Software configuration management tools such as PowerShell are mostly used in building integrations.
Core software integration techniques:
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| Technique | Complexity | Trigger Type | Location | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| API Integration | Medium | Request-Response | Cloud/On-Premise | General Integration |
| Webhooks | Low | Event-Driven | Web Applications | Real-time Updates |
| ISC | Medium | Scheduled/Real-time | Local Server | On-Premise Tools |
| Orchestration | High | Workflow-Based | Various | Complex Scenarios |
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Modern Data-Centric Integration Methods:
There are several modern approaches to data-centric integration:
Data warehousing:
Data warehousing involves storing integrated data in a centralized platform. This type of integration can be used to cleanse, format and store data from different sources. This makes it really easy for the analysts to access the data.
Middleware integration:
Here, the middleware acts as a bridge between the central repository and various data sources. It allows easy data movement by formatting and validating the data before sending it to the destination. Middleware data integration is extremely useful while dealing with multiple systems.
Data consolidation:
Data consolidation is used to combine data from multiple systems into a single source. This method is often supported by the extract, transform, load (ETL) software. It extracts data from different sources, transforms it into a particular format, and loads it into a central repository.
Data visualization:
Data visualization offers a real-time consolidated view of data without having to physically move or copy the data. Instead of transferring the data to a central repository, virtualization enables the user to access data from the original source through an interface.
By opting for the data integration techniques, you can ensure that there is a seamless flow of data between the different systems in the environment.
Use our ROI calculator to know more about how software integration can benefit your business!
Technology Enablers for Software Integration:
Before we dive into the individual technology enablers, it is important that we know more about what these technology enablers are all about:
What are the various technology enablers for software integration? Technology enablers involve the various advanced technologies that are used in the software integration process. These technology enablers ensure that the entire software integration process gets carried out in a smooth and streamlined manner. |
There are a lot of technology enablers for software integration that allow the integration process to be carried out smoothly:
Application programming interfaces:
Application programming interfaces provide standardized methods to access and exchange data. They allow for scalable integration. Different types of APIs are available that allow communication between the different systems.
Middleware:
Middleware solutions can be used to connect disparate applications through an interface. This kind of integration is mainly used for smooth data routing, data transformation, and protocol conversion.
iPaaS:
These are cloud-based platforms that can be used to integrate on-prem and cloud-based applications. They offer a low-code no-code environment in order to integrate the systems.
Microservices:
Microservices are used to break down complex applications into independent services. Each service can be integrated through APIs. This offers your business with scalability and agility.
Orchestration:
Orchestration allows you to integrate complex systems in a smooth and effective way. They are used to manage microservices.
Data integration tools:
Data integration tools like extract, transform, and load (ETL) tools allow you to send data across various systems. This helps in increasing data consistency. Smooth communication is also maintained across the entire environment.
These technology enablers ensure that integration becomes possible between the different systems in your environment.
| A Gartner survey of over 300 CIOs found that on average, only 35% of their AI capabilities will be built by their IT teams. So, CIOs must prioritize the use of technology enablers for software integration within the teams so that the integration process can be carried out in a streamlined manner. |
Related Read: APPSeCONNECT Named a Category Leader in Integration Software 2023 by GetApp!
Advanced Integration Approaches:
As per IDC, the enterprise applications market grew 12.0% year over year in 2023. Worldwide revenues reached 356 billion USD. This value will continue to increase through the years.
Now let us have a look at some of the advanced software integration approaches:
Middleware integration:
This method makes use of a middleware or a central integration layer in order to establish smooth communication between the different systems. It offers prebuilt functionalities for various tasks like data formatting, data transformation, etc.
Enterprise service bus:
This tool can be used to connect different complex applications. It also manages how the data is communicated and shared between the devices. It allows smooth integration by handling various tasks like data transformation, routing, security, and orchestration.
iPaaS:
iPaaS is one of the most vital tools for software integration. It helps with data mapping and process automation through a cloud-based platform. iPaaS allows you to meet your integration needs really quickly as you do not require extensive coding or maintenance.
Enterprise application integration (EAI):
This method of integration is really useful for enterprise wide systems like ERP, CRM, and legacy mainframe software. They come with standardized interfaces, data models, and centralized governance features.
How to Choose the Right Integration Technique?
Here’s a step-by-step guideline on how you can choose the right software integration technique for your company:
Know your business needs:
It is really important to determine your business needs before you choose your software integration technique. Every business has different requirements while integrating their system and the best solution will marry adaptability and robust functionality to your unique needs.
Consider scalability:
Scalability is a very important factor that you need to consider while identifying your integration approach. Always choose one such integration solution that can evolve with your business and adapt to changing demands. This will bring about a huge difference to a business if you ever wish to scale up your operations.
Consider the cost:
It is also important for you to take into consideration the cost. This will ensure that your business needs are made within your budget. You will also not have to struggle while meeting your business demands.
Consider peer reviews:
One of the most reliable methods for determining the quality of a service or product is to learn what people think about it. Read customer reviews and then choose your right integration method accordingly.
Beyond these, you can also consider hiring a reliable software integration service provider that APPSeCONNECT. That way, the entire integration process can be carried out without any hindrance.
Best Practices for Successful Software Integration:
Let us look at some of the best practices for successful software integration:
Clearly define your goals:
Before you start off, it is important that you clearly outline your business use case that the integration is supposed to address. You also need to be specific about what improvement you wish to bring to your business through the integration initiative.
Conduct a thorough analysis of the systems:
It is really important to perform an analysis on your existing technical ecosystem. This will allow you to identify the best approach for integration. Audit all the major systems and databases and also outline the dependencies.
Choose the right integration approach:
With clear goals and systems in place, it is now time for you to pick the right integration approach. You must shortlist the approach based on your system complexity, your available budget, and your long-term business goals.
Give priority to data quality and governance:
You must set up data policy standards and assign roles right from the beginning of the integration process. This will allow you to maintain data integrity. You will also be able to ensure that your business remains compliant.
Testing while deploying is important:
Develop a staged rollout plan which includes thorough testing of the various systems. Also, schedule testing with the employees and customers and address feedbacks in each of the iterations. Ensure that your application goes live only when it is completely tested.
Offer continuous support:
Simply deploying the application is not enough. It is also important that you offer continuous support. This will ensure that all the gaps are addressed. Your business operations can also be carried out in a smooth and effective manner.
Use AI-powered integration:
AI-powered tools can be really useful for businesses that are trying to get the maximum benefits from the integration process. AI integration can offer numerous benefits like automated error handling, intelligent data mapping, enhanced security and cohesive insights.
According to a survey conducted by McKinsey, 71% of respondents say their companies regularly use gen AI in at least one business function. This is up from 65% in early 2024.
By implementing these best practices, you can ensure that the integration takes place in a fast, reliable, and effective way.
Challenges in Software Integration:
While software integration may be a lucrative option, the process may also expose you to a lot of challenges. So, here are some of challenges in Software integration:
Lack of compatibility:
This is one of the primary challenges of software integration. Incompatible systems can cause operational inefficiencies and data silos. When different software components are not compatible with each other, it can lead to duplicated efforts, data inaccuracy, and wasted time.
Data inconsistency:
In this world of integrated systems, maintaining data consistency and accuracy is very important. Inconsistent data can cause incorrect decision-making. It can also lead to loss of trust and errors in a reporting process. The organization’s credibility can be harmed.
Security concerns:
Security remains a vital concern in software integration. Integrating systems can open potential vulnerabilities. Without robust security measures, the sensitive data in your organization may also be exposed.
Integrating legacy systems:
Many companies deal with legacy systems which can be difficult to integrate with the modern application. These older systems lack flexibility and interoperability making integration ideally challenging.
Scalability:
In the word scalability, problems arise while integrating software systems. As a company grows and evolves, integrated systems must be able to scale accordingly in order to meet the increased demands. Scalability issues may lead to system bottlenecks and performance degradation.
Software integration challenges:
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In order to avoid these challenges, you can consider hiring APPSeCONNECT as your integration partner. This will allow you to reap the maximum benefits from the integration process.
Future Trends in Software Integration
With various advancements being made in the field of technology, a lot of new trends are rising in the field of software integration. So, let us look at some of the emerging trends in software integration:
AI-driven integration:
Artificial intelligence is completely revolutionizing integration. By automating complex tasks, AI-driven integration has paved the path for the business sector. AI-based integration tools can be used to predict data discrepancies and make suggestions to the existing processes. It also helps accelerate the integration process.
A 2023 Forrester survey found that 36% of employees fear losing their jobs to AI. However, leaders must frame generative AI as a tool for enhancing — not replacing.
Rise in cloud native and iPaaS integration:
With the rapid expansion of cloud services, the need for cloud native integration is increasing. These days, most companies are opting for iPaaS platforms for integrating the different applications. This trend is being driven by innovation. iPaaS also allows seamless communication across hybrid architecture.
Real-time data integration:
In this fast-paced world of technology, businesses are shifting towards real-time data architecture. This approach helps companies to quickly act upon data that is generated. It also allows for enhanced decision-making.
Integration of IoT devices:
With the rise of IoT devices, integration opportunities are increasing. The integration services of today are being designed in such a way that they can smoothly integrate IoT systems without any hindrance at all.
Learn more about the Salesforce integration process -> Click here!
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Choosing APPSeCONNECT As Your Software Integration Service Provider
APPSeCONNECT stands out as one of the most reliable platforms for software integration. It comes with a lot of prebuilt functionalities that allow you to integrate the different systems. APPSeCONNECT makes use of iPaaS in order to integrate the various applications. This integration can be used to drive strategic business growth. It also facilitates automation of workflows.
APPSeCONNECT’s enhanced set of features:
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Here’s why APPSeCONNECT is a much better option than other players in the software integration market:
| Feature | APPSeCONNECT | Jitterbit | MuleSoft |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prebuilt Connectors | ✅ | ⚠ | ⚠ |
| No-Code Setup | ✅ | ❌ | ⚠ |
| Customization | ✅ | ⚠ | ⚠ |
| 24/7 Support | ✅ | ✅ | ⚠ |
Although companies like Jitterbit and MuleSoft are known for their advanced integration options, they lack the necessary customization options for company-specific integration requirements. The companies are also known for their heavy setup costs.
APPSeCONNECT offers a complete balance of reliability, adaptability, and flexibility which makes it a much better choice as compared to its competitors. APPSeCONNECT is also known for its enhanced pricing options.
APPSeCONNECT also has a 4.7 rating on Capterra. It is trusted by thousands of brands from all across the world:
APPSeCONNECT’s Enhanced Security & Compliance Measures:
APPSeCONNECT also provides HIPAA and CLOUD ACT complaint integration solutions for handling sensitive data in the US. |
Here’s how APPSeCONNECT helped streamline Eurofer’s business with its enhanced software integration services:
Eurofer, a global wellness brand, was struggling with various disparate systems which is why they reached out to APPSeCONNECT for integrating their systems. This allowed the company to witness sharp improvement in its operational efficiency. It was also able to ensure that its various business processes got carried out smoothly.
Read the complete case study -> Click here!
Frequently Asked Questions
Software integration comes with multiple benefits like:
- Enhanced efficiency
- Improved collaboration
- Cost reduction
- Data sharing
Some of the most common methods of software integration include:
- API integration
- Webbook
- Orchestration
- Microservices
The exact integration time will depend on the number of systems in your environment, the business complexity and much more.
