What is Enterprise Application integration? Pros vs cons

Enterprises are evolving every day around the world due to increased digitization. Every company is using technology in one way or the other either small or large, everyone seems to be benefiting from the many perks of implementing tech. The pace at which companies are shifting from manual to automated is evident of the important role that technology is playing. From managing administrative tasks to customers, modern-day tech is making things and processes more efficient and easier. Speaking of which, enterprise application integration has its benefits as well. But first, let’s look at what enterprise application integration is all about.

What is Enterprise Application Integration (EAI)?

According to Technopedia, ‘Enterprise application integration (EAI) is the use of technologies and services across an enterprise to enable the integration of software applications and hardware systems. EAI is related to middleware technologies. Other developing EAI technologies involve

Web service integration, service-oriented architecture, content integration, and business processes.’ According to studies, the Enterprise Application Integration market was valued at USD 9.65 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach USD 22.69 billion by 2026 at a CAGR of 15.42%, over the forecast period 2021 – 2026.

Characteristics of enterprise application integration

Sharing of Information becomes easier.

features of enterprise applications are plentiful. One of which is giving easier access to information; very important for employees to seamlessly work and reach their company goals. But on the other hand, company information systems are an asset for businesses. Therefore enterprise application integration can not only help employees to get much-needed access to information but also enable companies to keep their data protected so that only authorized individuals can access it.

Additionally, it simplifies the flow of complex information by making the entire data flow process smoother, this way data can reach the relevant user without any hassle. Moreover, through single access features, employees can access data from a single source, therefore, making the entire data flow process rather centralized, easily manageable, and cost-efficient. The ease of access to information saves valuable employee time, employees do not need to go through layers of paperwork or third parties to access data which fosters an efficient collaboration between the management and the organization employees.

Smooth processes for the IT department.

Simplified IT processes bring greater satisfaction. Companies always want to provide better customer services through user-friendly technology for maximum satisfaction. Even though modern-day technologies are making our lives easier, they should be simple so that even layman can understand them. Similarly, in large enterprises and corporations managing data becomes difficult especially when the company has either complicated IT infrastructures and processes.

In this case, enterprise application integration eliminates the hassle of setting up huge infrastructure and can lead to simplified processing. Since application integration uses the software and computer systems architectural principles to integrate a set of enterprise computer applications. Thus makes IT processes and lives easier and also leads to a higher productivity ratio. 

Opportunities are endless.

Companies around the globe have ample opportunities in tech to strive and thrive in the ever-increasing digital world. All they need to do is grasp them as soon as they knock on their door. But still, many companies are hesitant to openly accept digitization as is, the reason why they have to face losses. Customers demand automation, business processes demand automation and employees demand automation; shifting from manual processes to automated mechanisms and having proper working software is the new normal. Under these circumstances, enterprise application integration is the only right solution. Through which they can not only respond to opportunities as they arise but also get hold of them instantly.

Moreover, it can help with developing strategies based on changing market trends. It is the need of time to make the most out of opportunities with Enterprise application integration. Besides, companies enable to gain a competitive advantage in an exceedingly competitive business landscape by improving processes. Immediately replying to problems, and bringing in more efficiency, and production is not only greatly increased but also more efficient. 

 

Less time and more efficiency.

Among other things, minimizing wasted time and increasing work efficiencies are two of the most significant aspects for the success of global businesses, so to speak. Every business around the globe strives for efficiency, there is no doubt about that. Because greater efficiency leads to a high return of investments and who doesn’t want to make a profit? Everyone does. Therefore, Enterprise application integration provides an all-in-one package for increasing efficiency and consequently revenues.

Speaking of saving time, then there would be no exaggeration to say that EAI increases work performance, it enables employees to do more in less time. Additionally, it improves the functioning of work activities and makes them rather smooth. Companies can have better control over their data. Managers can not only overview analytics reports to get insights into employees’ work activities but can also devise future strategies based on the insights available. Furthermore, EAI helps companies to identify the full potential of their software investments.

 

Cons of Enterprise Application Integration

 

• Third-Party software can lead to security concerns 
• Employes or even managerial level may have adaptability issues. They may not easily get used to the newer integration because they were so used to working through traditional processes
• Companies need to transfer all their data to the application once it has been launched which can lead to data overload, therefore, making it less flexible

 

If you are looking for enterprise application development but lack in-house expertise, better go towards outsourcing an enterprise application development company for better results.