Keys to Software Integration

Keys to Software Integration

By: Jack Saint

As an ERP software vendor we are often tasked with integrating with other systems our customers are using.  Systems for vertical applications, systems used by parent organizations to exchange data, systems built for specific deep functionality.

Often ERP software is integrated with payroll packages, CAD/CAM software, shipping manifest and tax packages, different parent company financial applications, advanced software packages in different specialty application areas, or home grown systems.

The Keys to Successful Software Integration for ERP Vendors Are To:

• Make one side the master of data to avoid conflicting updates.

• Make generic interfaces that can be re-used as other best of breed packages in given areas emerge.

• Keep the integration simple.
• Prioritize what information is most important to integrate and when.  Keep it as simple as possible.

Integrations have a tendency to grow in complexity and scopes can quickly burst into monsters that go over budget and are difficult to test and maintain.  As in all development projects, keep it simple if possible, map out priorities and declare the owner of data being passed.  Prevent integration projects from jeopardizing the budget and timeframe of delivery.

Conclusion

As always, remember, return on investment (ROI) is a measuring stick of what development to invest in.  System integrations must be justified to stay on budget and keep the financial folks happy.  

To learn more about our ERP solution and whether it can be integrated with an application that your company is already using, please get in touch with us. You can contact us online or call us at 978-269-6500.