What Is Software Integration?
Software integration is essentially the process of combining different software systems or applications to work together as a single, cohesive unit. It allows for data and functionality sharing between systems which in turn can improve efficiency, introduce automation for your business processes and enhance overall performance.
Like most of our clients, you likely use multiple existing systems on a daily basis. Maybe you have separate systems for all of your different workflows - a separate tool for quoting, ordering, dispatching and tracking orders for example. Perhaps you then have to manually ensure the data within each of these systems matches the other rather than having a centralised data platform.
Sound familiar? It doesn't have to be, nor do you have to get rid of the systems you've already invested in - we can make them work together through a custom software integration solution based on your unique requirements and pain points.
Benefits of Software Integration
There are a wide range of benefits to software integration and more specifically, bespoke integrations. Here will look at some of the core advantages in detail -
Enhanced Efficiency
By integrating new or existing software systems, organisations are able to improve operational efficiency through reducing manual data entry and repetitive tasks by negating the need to undertake these tasks across multiple systems. This can help streamline workflows, save time and reduce manual errors and can often be done via automation. Not only can these benefits improve the user experience and employee satisfaction, they can also enhance the customer experience as well.
Centralised Information
Software integration provides unlimited users real time access to information from multiple sources all in one place. This ensures consistency and help to improve decision making because regardless of the user, everyone is able to see the same information at the same time.
Cost Savings
Integrating software systems can provide cost savings in various ways. First and foremost, by choosing to integrate software rather than replacing it, organisations are protecting their initial investment by continuing to use the software. In addition, automating processes can also lower operational costs and reduce the need for manual labour. Finally, by having one integrated software system, support and maintenance costs should be lower compared to maintaining and supporting multiple software solutions.
Better Collaboration
Another core benefit of integrated software systems is that it can significantly enhance collaboration within an organisation. This is through improved communication between departments via the use of one unified platform for data and processes and the fact all users can access the same information, at the same time.
Bespoke Software Friendly
If an organisation already has a bespoke system or a number of bespoke systems, it can be challenging to find an off the shelf solution that will integrate easily with them to meet the specific objectives of the company. A bespoke solution however is possible which will allow bespoke systems to be integrated with each other, protecting initial investments and negating the need for additional systems.
Examples of Software Integration
As we have covered above, software integration involves connecting different applications and systems to work together in order to meet the specific needs of an organisation. Here are some common examples of software integration -
- E-commerce platform integration with payment gateways
- CRM integration with email marketing tools
- Export orders to an external warehouse for dispatch
- Integrating a HR system with payroll software
- Integrating accounting software with a CRM system
- Website integration with analytics tools
- Adding bank information to business software systems via Open Banking
- Exporting information to systems like Mailchimp to manage communications
- Importing and exporting product information to eBay and Amazon
How We Can Help
Our UK based development team will take the time to understand your specific business and what you want to achieve via a bespoke software integration. We will map out your current workflows and then work closely with you to determine which workflows need to be integrated to allow for more streamlined and efficient working. During this process we will ensure you are fully aware of all potential timescales, risks and costs to allow you to make informed decisions. We give you software integration solutions that truly improve your operations, your way.
FAQs
Q) Can you integrate all of my Software?
A) That depends on your current set-up and what you want to achieve, we would be more than happy to discuss what we could do for you.
Q) Why should I integrate my Software?
A) There are many different reason as to why a company may choose to integrate their software. Some key examples are - automation, to reduce costs, accessibility, flexibility on working practices, centralised data and scalability.
Q) Will integration harm our data integrity?
A) Integration should maintain or improve data integrity. You should always ensure the integrator you use is clear as to how they ensure the integrity of your data and highlight any risks
Q) How difficult is Software Integration?
A) This entirely depends on what software is being integrated, how many different pieces there are and how they need to function.
