When you take data from multiple sources and consolidate the information, you’re performing data integration. While it’s a process you may undertake every once in a while during normal operations, a dedicated data integration strategy can transform your business by reviewing this information every day. Read on to learn why data integration is important for success.
Better Communication
Unintegrated data puts up walls where they don’t need to be. Data silos create division between departments and branches, while integration brings everything under one roof. When everyone has access to the same data, they can better communicate with one another and work together toward common goals.
Integration also enhances trust between departments—since everyone can see the same information, there is increased transparency, and you never need to worry that the accounting department isn’t telling the HR team something.
Data Accuracy
Inaccurate data can lead to false insights and poor business decisions. When integration pulls data in from multiple places, the process will check to ensure that there are no inaccuracies or redundancies. This way, you can rest assured that you’re making choices based on reliable information.
Ease of Access
Real-time data that’s easy to access makes everything run more smoothly. When you wait for things to happen manually, you miss out on the opportunity to stay mobile and flexible as a company. In general, it’s the companies that respond quickest that see the most success in the fast-paced modern world.
Integration vs. Migration
While data integration and migration share some commonalities, they describe two different processes. Integration takes data from multiple sources and brings them together while migration moves data from one system to another. Depending on the quality of your current system, both processes may be crucial to your strategy, so make sure you have a quality data migration plan.
Now that you know why data integration is important for success, decide whether integration or migration is the next step for your company and enjoy the many benefits of a consolidated system.
