Most workers have suffered the pain of disconnected systems in some way, shape, or form. Entering the same data into multiple systems, not being to access key information from a different department, and disjointed business analytics are just a few examples of this. When departments implement technology at different times and using different vendors, it typically leads to siloed subsystems that don’t communicate with each other and cause pain-points like those listed above.
Did you know that integrating your systems has several benefits including increased productivity, better customer service, decreased costs, improved data accuracy and analytics, and more? With software systems migrating to the cloud every day, there has never been a better time to sync up your systems and modernize your technology.
The type of software integration you need depends on your current architecture, software needs, and organizational structure. The three main methods of system integration are vertical, horizontal, and star.
Let’s review the differences.
Vertical integration is the process of connecting unrelated subsystems within a designated vertical, like accounting or marketing. Each of these subsystems performed a specific function, but did not optimally relay information. After integrating these subsystems, they can quickly share data in an upwards fashion within the silo. Vertical integrations are quick and more affordable to implement, but do not scale as well as other methods.
Horizontal integration is the process of connecting subsystems across different verticals to make the data more accessible by any system. With horizontal system integration, an Enterprise Service Bus (ESB) is created and functions as the connection between the subsystems. This specialized system is flexible and scalable, and is commonly used in industries like healthcare.
Star integration, also known as point-to-point, connects each subsystem independently to all other subsystems. Star integration can be effective if processes and data are segmented throughout a business’ verticals. Communication between each subsystem is fast and autonomous, but this method can become very complicated when there are too many connections.
Still not sure which method is best for your business? We’d love to help you figure it out. At Squarei Technologies, we specialize in engineering cost-effective software solutions that are customized to your needs. Contact us today at (970) 377-0077 or hello@squarei.com to find out how we can transform how you do business through integrating your systems.
