Why Is SaaS Integration Important?
Being responsive to fluctuating business environments is the benchmark of a company with long-term stability. One way to do that is by utilizing essential software for streamlining operating processes. Gone are the days of having to purchase expensive and limited on-site software. Instead, Software-as-a-service, or SaaS, is a cloud-based software solution that we all have come to know and rely on. As a result, it is no longer required to spend thousands on extensive equipment and mainframes to run your enterprises’ software.
When selecting software solutions for your business, there are now more options than ever. The software and apps your business utilizes in conjunction with one another are your unique technology stack. So, how do companies merge these systems? In the past, data was isolated in each software application.
SaaS integration is the process of data flow between software applications.
SaaS Integration
Saas integration is achieved when SaaS software is connected to the other software used in your organization and can be with other SaaS software or on-premises software. Once the software is linked, data will now flow freely between the applications.
This can be achieved in several ways. Application integration can be accomplished with iPaaS (integration platform as a service) or through manually integrating the information. iPaaS is a cloud-based platform that migrates data between applications.
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SaaS Integration Benefits
Application programming interfaces, or API, are the vehicle by which SaaS integration is achieved between applications. This saves time inputting information and can also save on human errors. Using API also allows you to get the most out of your SaaS apps. Solutions can come in the form of an in-app API from the Saas software or in-house created software. The upside of doing in-house API integration is that it allows your organization to ensure that the data they need is transferred between your tech stack. On the other hand, in-app integrations may be more cost-effective but may miss vital data transfers.
Integration also allows greater transparency. Employees do not have to search through multiple platforms to compile important data, such as customer interactions and sales amounts. This saves time and aggravation experienced by many employees allowing them to enjoy greater productivity and a more pleasant working environment. As any business owner knows, a happy employee increases the likelihood of a happy customer.
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Disadvantages of SaaS Integrations
Data integrations in any form take a lot of time. On the offset, migrating the data, whether manually or through iPaaS apps, will consume additional time. It is crucial to ensure that the information moved is correct. If not, the end product data could be inaccurate and require time to correct. Once these measures have been completed, your business will enjoy the time-saving benefits of having your tech stack work in concert to give you the most up-to-date information on your business.
There are also concerns over security and backup storage. When placing faith in a cloud-based application, it is essential to work with companies you know and respect. In addition, some companies require extensive backup storage options, and you need to verify the programs have sufficient storage capabilities for your needs.
Additionally, iPaaS apps that were not created by the end-users could exclude vital data requirements or create silos of data. For example, when multiple departments within an organization use their own specific applications to gather data, that information is not available to other departments. This leaves a gap in vital information. Were this to occur, critical date points could be lost, which could negatively impact a company’s overall performance. Tech administrators need to verify that neither of these scenarios occurs to protect end-user data accuracy.
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New Innovations
The market for SaaS solutions is ever-changing. The inception of iPaaS options offered fundamental bridges of information that accentuate the usability of existing products. Data-as-a-service innovations are now on the market, which streamlines the mining of critical data for companies. Data mining is a labor and time-intensive process. Enterprises can now use this service for quicker, more direct access to this information. DaaS solutions are a cost-effective way to have access to huge volumes of cloud-based data.
Micro SaaS
Market saturation and limitations in technology have made it difficult for new SaaS applications to gain a foothold. This has led to the rise of micro SaaS solutions. These startups are usually small companies with only a few employees that offer very specific solutions targeted at small business owners. They usually meet the needs that are not addressed by larger SaaS applications. As with other SaaS apps, businesses need SaaS integration plans to make sure their data is fluid.
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Bottom Line
The flexibility and ease of use that SaaS applications offer allows business to streamline their operations cost-effectively. Companies today utilize multiple programs that can leave data scattered across many platforms. It can also create data silos where information is isolated in separate departments that freely flow through an organization. The wasted time it takes to access and translate piece-meal data into actionable steps for employees would be better spent on money-making activities.
SaaS integration solves this problem. It takes input data and spreads it across all the linked applications, saving time and money. While there may be some drawbacks, like the initial amount of time it takes to merge an enterprise’s tech stack, the benefits greatly outweigh the downsides. In addition, tools like iPaaS can cut down on human errors that might occur in putting in data manually, which will ultimately save time in the long run.
SaaS integration is a valuable process for any company looking to solidify its position in a rapidly changing business environment. While it will not fully automate data transmission, it can significantly increase productivity, employee satisfaction, and customer retention rates. Therefore, any company would be well advised to research and invest in a reliable iPaaS platform to help SaaS integration operations within their organization.