EAI is not only used to integrate apps but also the data and business processes across the entire organization. The goal of EAI is to reduce IT complexity by eliminating the need for multiple systems and applications to support one function. Several companies are found leveraging Enterprise Application Integration just to ensure that their systems and business procedures are more productive and efficient which in the end turns out to be quite beneficial for business growth.
So, now without any further ado, let's discuss what kind of benefits EAI has to offer.
Benefits of EAI
Information Sharing
Information sharing is one of the most important benefits of enterprise application integration. It is the ability to share essential information with other enterprise softwares used to maintain the growth of business between various systems, apps, and users. This can include real-time data feed updates, chat or messaging services, or even the sharing of documents and files.
For example, if you have a sales team that needs access to customer data to sell more products and services, it’s often easier to create an application that provides this information than it is to build another system from scratch. Some companies will even use an existing application from another company as a starting point for their new application.
It also cuts down on development time because there are fewer moving parts involved in creating an integration solution between two different applications (which means less risk).
Process Automation
Performing a series of operations without any need for human intervention is said to be process automation. For example, an online ordering system might create an order for a customer and then automatically ship it to the customer, without any input from the customer or a human operator. This is typically done through an ERP system, which manages all aspects of an organization's business processes. The process can be fully automated and humans don't need to intervene for it to run smoothly.
Business process optimization
Business process optimization is the ability to maximize efficiency by managing all aspects of your business through automation and software applications. Businesses have always been able to automate some things, but they've never had access to the type of sophisticated software that can manage all aspects of their operations through one platform - until now!
Business Agility
Business agility means being able to change business processes without interrupting operations. While there are some exceptions, most organizations use EAI technologies to enable this kind of agile business model. It helps them deliver value faster without compromising on quality or compliance requirements.
Cost Reduction
It reduces costs by improving workflow efficiency, reducing manual errors, and providing instant access to information at any time anywhere in the world. It also reduces complexity by removing manual steps from the process stream which makes it easier for users to understand what needs to be done next instead of having multiple steps involved in every change request.
Reduced IT Complexity
EAI reduces the number of systems required to perform a task or complete a process. For example, an enterprise resource planning system might use data from sales databases, customer management systems, and other internal and external sources to generate reports. In contrast, an EAI solution would use this same data without requiring external systems. The result is a more consolidated application that reduces the amount of time spent on manual data entry or other tasks that require manual processing.
Improved Organizational Capabilities
When using EAI, organizations can leverage their existing resources more effectively and make better business decisions faster than if they were using multiple stand-alone applications with complex integration requirements. This can help them stay competitive in their industry by being able to react quickly when strategic opportunities arise that require immediate action.
Enhanced Data Security
One of the most important benefits of EAI is improved security for enterprise-wide data. With one system performing all functions, access control becomes easier as there are fewer places where unauthorized users can gain access to sensitive information. This makes it much more difficult for hackers or malicious insiders to compromise critical systems.
The integration allows enterprises to reduce risks by using technology solutions that can detect fraud before it happens so companies can take action accordingly instead of dealing with problems after they occur.
Improved Data Quality
One of the main benefits of EAI solutions is improved data quality because they allow multiple systems within an organization to share information seamlessly without having to worry about how accurate it is or where it came from. This reduces error rates and enhances decision-making capabilities within an enterprise.
Final words
EAI can provide companies with significant benefits that allow them to streamline operations and reduce business costs. However, these benefits take time and money to achieve, which is why most companies are not able to budget for EAI projects the way they budget time, money, and resources for more immediate concerns. Businesses will likely begin investing in EAI when they realize that their current systems impact the bottom line more than they should.
