Explore the Best Tools for Effective Application Integration

We live in the age of technology, and businesses have significantly benefited from it. Companies rely on various applications and systems to streamline their operations and deliver better services.  However, applications cannot exist in a vacuum; they often must work in conjunction with one another, becoming part of a bigger digital ecosystem. This is where application integration comes into play.

What is Application Integration?

Application integration is the process that enables users to integrate various software, applications, databases, and services together.

Having every application operate in a state of isolation is inconvenient and inefficient from a business perspective. An integrated system allows for data sharing in real-time, which helps with collaboration across teams. For a business that uses multiple applications across departments for various functions, this smooth back-and-forth of data is not just an improvement but a necessity.

Simply put, application integration tools allow for data to be exchanged across different platforms. The final goal here is to build a digital ecosystem that allows for easy data sharing.

The Best Application Integration Tools

Most organizations use some form of application integration, making it essential to stay competitive in today’s tech-driven world. As companies grow, they tend to add more software to address newer challenges or older ones with more efficiency. Without proper integration, these added tools exist in a bubble and require manual data sharing. Here are some of the best application integration tools to remedy this type of situation:

1. MuleSoft Anypoint Platform

MuleSoft’s Anypoint Platform is a powerful tool when it comes to integration; capable of API management, application connectivity as well as data integrations (as one would expect from a tool in this list).  Whether working with cloud-based applications, on-premise software, or hybrid systems, MuleSoft’s Anypoint Platform is compatible with them all.

Key Features:

• API management and monitoring tools.
• Support multiple protocols (HTTP, JMS, etc.).
• Pre-built connectors to Salesforce, SAP, and AWS to name a few.
• Security features like OAuth and strong encryption methods

2. Zapier

Businesses looking for an easy and low-code integration platform, look no further than Zapier. It connects over 5,000 applications for automating workflows and exchanging data. Its user-friendly nature allows even those without advanced technical knowledge to use it with ease. Zapier’s “Zaps” automate repetitive tasks between apps.

Key Features:

• No-code automation of tasks
• More than 5,000 integrations with top applications.
• Multi-step workflows for more complex integrations.
• Customizable triggers and actions.

3. Dell Boomi

Dell Boomi is a cloud-based integration platform that allows companies to enable applications, data, and process connectivity from on-premises and cloud environments. Boomi provides an intuitive drag-and-drop interface. Its focus on simplicity is what makes it accessible to non-technical users all the while maintaining its advanced developer features for the pros.

Key Features:

• Visual design with drag-and-drop tools.
• Real-time data synchronization and event-driven architecture
• Pre-built connectors for the most popular apps and services
• Strong data governance and security capabilities

4. Workato

Workato is an integration and automation platform that allows businesses to connect applications, databases, and APIs to give optimal workflow efficiency. With a strong focus on aligning with business and IT, both business users and IT professionals can build integrations without needing to write long lines of code. It also features a user-friendly interface and hundreds of pre-built connectors.

Key Features:

• Integrates any of its applications, databases, and cloud services.
• Can sync the data in real time.
• Customizes the workflow for complex processes.
• Artificial intelligence-driven automation and intelligent workflows.

5. Jitterbit

Jitterbit offers an integration platform that simplifies the complex task of establishing a connection between cloud and on-premise applications. It is praised for its fast deployment and intuitive interface, which makes it easy for businesses to quickly create integrations. Jitterbit also includes robust monitoring and analytics tools to ensure integrations are running smoothly.

Key Features:

• Pre-built templates for quick integration setup.
• Real-time API management.
• Data migration and cloud integration features.
• Advanced monitoring and analytics tools.

Conclusion

Choosing the best application integration tool depends on several factors, including business size, complexity of your integration needs, and type of applications in use. By understanding the strengths of each platform, you can make a more informed decision that helps your business achieve its desired goals.

As a general rule of thumb, the best application integration solution for your business will be the one that can scale with your needs, integrate with the applications you use most, and provide the features necessary to optimize your workflows and automate tasks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How can integration help my business?

Application integration reduces manual data sharing by automating it, which means less time consumed and fewer chances of human error.

Q2. Is application integration secure?

Yes, we ensure secure integrations with advanced encryption and data protection features to safeguard your business information.

Q3. Can I integrate custom applications?

Yes, many integrations make it possible to integrate custom-built applications via APIs or other methods. However, this can get quite technical. Contact SlickDigital and let us handle your next application integration project.