As technology continues to evolve, data plays a crucial role in business development. Good data helps managers and business owners make fast, informed decisions about what employees to keep or fire, what products to stock, and what customers are the most profitable.
But even if your business collects data, it can be a challenge to make that data available to everyone who needs it.
Consider the following example: your HR team uses BambooHR. Your marketing team uses Zoho to track and manage their email campaigns. The people on the floor use Excel to record product movement and product sales, your accountants use QuickBooks, and your sales team uses Salesforce.
While all of the teams in your business have different software needs, and different job functions, the data that they use and collect can all inform your business decisions. When you have all of the information that your employees gather, you obtain more knowledge about cash flow and employee productivity.
Software developers now understand that the need for interconnected data is greater than ever. That’s where software integration comes in.
What is software integration?
Put simply, software integration is the ability of software to transmit data from one application to another. For example, if Salesforce and QuickBooks integrated, you would be able to view the highest-paying customers and their effect on cash-flow at a glance.
There are two primary kinds of software integration. The first involves the two applications sharing information. The second involves collecting all of the data into a separate application, like an ERP or WMS, for easier viewing and analytics.
There are advantages to both kinds of software integration. By integrating applications together, you can extend the usability and usefulness of those software programs. However, you run the risk of leaving out other important information, and of not having the ability to see all of the collected data.
By importing all of your information into a separate application, an ERP or a WMS, you are able to obtain a more complete picture of what’s happening in your company.
Make software integration work for you
Software integration is a good thing. It allows you and your employees to obtain a more complete picture of the company and to make informed decisions.
When you’re purchasing new software or applications, be sure to ask the sales representative what integrations the software is capable of. Ask their tech representatives to help you with the integration process, and train your employees on how to use the integrated software.
The result? A more functional business with better communication — thanks to the power of technology.
Need help with software integration? Vodigy helps small and medium-sized businesses with their IT. We offer a wide range of tech-based and managed IT services. Contact us today!
