Overview
System integration methods are important for optimizing workflows, boosting productivity, and maximizing the potential of different software applications in today’s connected world. The process of integrating various software programs, data sources, and systems so they may function as a unified one is known as system integration. This involves linking different divisions within a business, integrating old systems with new ones, or merging on-site systems with cloud-based apps.
System integration has various advantages, such as better data consistency, more accuracy, more automated workflows, less manual input, and more productivity.
It is important to choose the right types of system integration to achieve successful outcomes and financial effectiveness on integration projects.
Four Methods of System Integration
System integration methods, formerly IT or software integration methods, involve different methods, each tailored to suit a particular need and situation. The four popular methods commonly used are
- Application Programming Interface (API)
- Webhooks,
- Integration Service Client (ISC),
- Orchestration.
Now, let’s explore each of these four popular approaches.
Application Programming Integration (API)
APIs are the most common software integration methods. A protocol and set of guidelines known as an API specify how various software components must communicate with one another. It serves as a messenger, enabling different software applications to communicate and receive structured data with each other.
When two types of software integration, one sends a request to the API of the other. Usually, this request contains information on data that is needed. After processing the request, the receiving application’s API delivers a response back to the originating application after obtaining the necessary information or performing the required action. Typically, the HTTP protocol is used for this network-based information transmission.
| Pros | Cons |
| With APIs, developers have a great deal of freedom in terms of selecting which features and data to make public, as well as how to organize requests and answers. | It may be difficult to design and activate API connections. It takes technical know-how in areas like data mapping, error management, and authentication. |
| Many APIs use well-established protocols, such as REST (Representational State Transfer), which facilitates their understanding and integration by developers. | Over time, APIs may change, necessitating continuous maintenance to guarantee security and compatibility. |
| Integrations based on APIs are flexible to meet growing user needs and data quantities. |
API integration is one of the software system integration services that may be used in various situations, such as custom integrations, data sharing, and capability extensions. It exchanges data across many apps, including uniting customer data between e-commerce and customer relationship management (CRM) systems. Additionally, API system integration methods permit the integration of services from another program into one’s own, such as integrating a payment gateway into an online store.
Webhooks
Webhooks are a simple substitute for APIs. They provide event-driven, real-time system communication. A webhook is triggered when a certain event takes place in one system. The webhook then makes an HTTP POST request to a pre-specified URL in another system.
| Pros | Cons |
| Updates via webhooks happen very instantly, making them perfect in situations when promptness is essential. | Compared to APIs, webhooks provide less control over data flow. |
| Compared to complex API connections, webhooks are comparatively easier to build. | If webhooks are not set up and protected correctly, they might be a security issue. |
Webhooks work well in situations like order processing, inventory management, and social media connections when real-time alerts and changes are needed.
Integration Service Clients (ISC)
An enterprise’s integration of disparate systems may be streamlined with the powerful framework Integration Service Client, or ISC. It serves as a common communication layer that facilitates easy data interaction across various software platforms, services, and apps. ISC provides a single interface for accessing and using the features of each system while removing the technological complexities of each one.
A request is sent via the ISC framework from one system to another to communicate with it. The ISC framework then converts the request into a format the destination system can understand. After completing the required tasks and processing the request, the target system sends a response back via the ISC framework, which converts it back into a format that the originating legacy system integration scan comprehends.
| Pros | Cons |
| By imposing a standardized set of guidelines and procedures for inter-system communication, ISC encourages standardization. | ISC’s higher levels of abstraction may be more costly in terms of usage and longer processing time. |
| ISC hides each system’s complex technological workings with a basic layer. | ISC offers a standardized method of integrating systems; however, it may not be as flexible as API interfaces. |
| ISC components save development time and effort since they may be reused in many integration projects. |
ISC is ideal for large enterprises with complex IT landscapes. It enables the integration of multiple systems from different technologies, standardization, reusability, and simplifying integration development. By abstracting the complexities of individual systems, it offers benefits such as improved operational efficiency, enhanced data sharing and collaboration, and reduced integration costs.
Orchestration
An Orchestration technique involves coordinating several services and systems to accomplish a specific business objective. It outlines a workflow that indicates the order in which various systems must function and the information that must be shared.
| Pros | Cons |
| Complex business processes may be automated with the help of orchestration. | It might be difficult to plan and execute orchestration procedures. |
| Error control techniques may be included in orchestration to guarantee process dependability. | Workflows for orchestration may need constant upkeep as business processes change. |
When several systems need to be coordinated for complicated, multi-step business processes, orchestration is the best option.
Why Do We Need Software Integration?
Software integration methods are important to ensure that different software applications can be unified within an organization, thereby promoting efficiency and reducing errors. There are four main system integration approaches, each tailored to serve similar yet distinct purposes.
Software integration might seem complex, but with the right training and execution, it’s worth the effort. Proper preparation can assist your company in reaching its maximum goals and simplify operations.
