Systems integration: implementation and advantages for your company

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Managing multiple processes simultaneously in a company requires using various platforms. Nowadays, organizations increasingly seek to integrate internal systems to streamline operations and ensure consistent data for the entire team.

Do you know what systems integration means and how it can benefit your business? In this article, we will cover the following topics:

  • What is systems integration?
  • Benefits of systems integration
  • Types of systems integration
  • How to implement it?
  • Advantages of an ERP

If you want to create a high-performance company and improve your team’s productivity, this article is tailored for you. Keep reading and discover how systems integration can be the key to your growth strategy’s success.

What does systems integration mean?

Systems integration is the practice of making all the tools used by the company “communicate” with each other. Integration centralizes and unifies data from different areas, streamlining processes and preventing rework.

Although it sounds simple, implementing it requires careful planning and structure.

You need to map all data inputs, information flow, and organizational needs with the support of technology.

The goal is to ensure that information is available, accessible, and secure; by connecting the software used for various functions, such as:

  • managing payments, 
  • customer service, 
  • inventory control, 
  • financial management.

The main benefit is providing all areas with access to the same data, ensuring security and efficiency while minimizing errors due to outdated, incompatible or incorrect information.

Discover how to implement a quality system in your company:

Benefits of systems integration

When you decide to integrate your company’s systems, you are taking an important step to improve productivity. Integrated platforms ensure greater reliability of information, a key advantage of this connection.

Other benefits of system integration include:

  1. Reduced rework: no need to enter the same data in multiple systems. Information added in one software will be automatically available in others used by the company.
  2. Streamlined processes: lack of process standardization is highly detrimental to corporate routines and the quality of deliveries. Integration enhances efficiency and agility, especially when well established processes are already in place.
  3. Enhanced customer service: quick and accurate information readily accessible to customer service teams improves the overall customer experience.
  4. Team alignment: centralized data fosters seamless communication and instant updates across teams.
  5. Improved performance: easy access to updated information, integrated teams, and efficient data flow lead to enhanced productivity and overall corporate performance.

For more productivity tips, check out our article:

6 steps to enhance your business productivity using time management

Explore practical recommendations for your daily routine:

Types of systems integration

Continuing our discussion on system integration, let’s explore the options available for your company. There are three main types:

1. Electronic data interchange

In this method, a software acts as a translator for data exchange between integrated systems. It translates messages from each tool and passes them to the other platform. 

It is a complex option due to requiring finding specific and reliable software to establish a common language for all centralized systems.

2. Database integration 

The company shares a single database among all involved platforms. This approach requires a program to extract information.

The main disadvantage is the security and consistency of data, as continuous extraction must be protected against potential inconsistencies or leaks.

3. API´s

APIs (application programming interface) have gained popularity, serving as a bridge between applications in an organization’s processes.

It allows real-time data transmission and enhances data security through encryption.

By using APIs, companies can ensure smoother and more secure communication between systems, enabling efficient systems integration.

How to perform systems integration?

At this point, you may have decided that systems integration is what your company needs to grow.

However, let’s proceed with caution as the process requires careful execution for the best results.

Check out the following considerations to ensure the project is successfully executed: 

Establish priorities 

Define your integration goals precisely; whether it is saving time, enhancing processes, or securing information.

Align your company’s focus with the integration to determine the next steps and how to execute the project effectively.

Choose the integration type 

Evaluate market options that align with your company’s resources.

Opt for an integration solution that fits your business reality, ensuring coherence and feasibility.

Gather data and map processes

Start the integration project by mapping and organizing your company’s processes and data.

Data is essential for your business and, through integration, these critical inputs should become more consistent and reliable.

Learn more:

How to create a process map? Learn now in 4 steps!

Involve and train your team 

Engage your teams from the beginning as changes in handling the data will directly impact their daily routine.

Their input will shape how information circulates between systems. Ensure proper training for those involved and prepare for potential changes in access formats.

A successful system integration relies on transparent and committed teamwork, where every step is well understood and executed efficiently.

Advantages of an ERP

Finally, let’s talk about a very useful possibility for those seeking greater data reliability and consistency: adopting an ERP.

The acronym ERP stands for Enterprise Resource Planning. It is a comprehensive integrated management system that brings together information from all areas of the company.

If you are already advanced in the decision to integrate your company’s systems, choosing to implement an ERP can be a compelling option.

By implementing an ERP, you can enjoy benefits such as:

  • increased efficiency,
  • better process control, 
  • reduced operational costs. 

Why is ERP a good option?

Being a system divided into modules provides flexibility for companies that cannot integrate all systems at once, allowing for a phased approach.

In addition to these advantages, we can also mention:

  • Cost reduction using technology: if you previously needed multiple systems operating simultaneously, now you will only have to allocate resources for monitoring and maintaining a single program.
  • Data unification: Information enters through a single pathway and passes through all processes without losses or inconsistencies. This ensures greater security that the data is accurate and up-to-date.
  • Collaboration: the days of keeping crucial data exclusively within a department are gone. A transparent organization benefits everyone, as sharing data can boost sales, productivity and overall company results.
  • Real-time management: With ERP, all employees can have a clear view of the company’s performance. Instant updates enable each team to identify their role in achieving business goals.

Some ERP modules allow creating customized dashboards that simplify performance analysis for each department, enhancing overall productivity and engagement.

For further insights on “employee engagement activities” and how it can boost team productivity, check out this article.

By now, you should have a clear understanding of the importance of systems integration for your company’s performance. It is a crucial process to enhance results and achieve new levels of excellence.

Centralize performance management

Tracking performance also provides valuable insights into your strategy and action plans.

With the right indicators at your disposal, the decision making process becomes more accurate, efficient, saving resources, and enhancing team productivity and performance.

To achieve high performance, you need a system that centralizes all company information and data.

STRAWs ONE, a Siteware indicator software, empowers you to advance towards your goals and targets, offering a single platform where you can:

  • integrate projects, 
  • execute action plans,
  • delegate tasks.

The outcome? Definitely, more accurate data driven decisions.

Schedule a free tryout and start using the indicator software to achieve business success.

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