Introduction to System

Integration
ITE 182 – Systems Integration, Administration and Maintenance
 What is System Integration?

 System Integration refers to the process of combining different computing

systems and software applications physically or functionally to act as a
coordinated whole. It ensures that all parts work together seamlessly to
achieve a common goal. This can involve linking software and hardware
or integrating various technologies to enhance overall functionality.
 System Integration is the process of combining different subsystems or
components into one larger system.
 What is System Integration?

 Importance in Today's Business Landscape:

 In the rapidly evolving business environment, organizations often use a variety of software,
applications, and technologies.
 System integration is crucial for ensuring that these diverse components work together
efficiently.
 Enables real-time data exchange, enhances communication, and streamlines operations.
 Facilitates a more agile and responsive business structure, which is critical for staying
competitive.
 Objectives of System Integration

 Enhancing Efficiency:
 Integration aims to eliminate silos and redundancies within systems, promoting a more streamlined
workflow.
 Reducing manual efforts and automating processes lead to increased operational efficiency.

 Improving Communication:
 System integration facilitates seamless communication between different software applications and
systems.
 Enables real-time data sharing, fostering collaboration among departments and teams.

 Streamlining Processes:
 Integration helps in optimizing and simplifying complex business processes.
 Streamlined processes result in faster decision-making and improved overall business agility.
 Types of System Integration

 Vertical Integration:
 Vertical integration involves going deep into a specific domain or functionality, covering different aspects
within that area.
 Example: If the app had focused on deepening the educational content in colors, shapes, and numbers
without introducing additional categories, it would represent a more vertical approach.

 Horizontal Integration:
 Horizontal integration involves expanding across different functionalities or features at the same level.
 Example: when an app broadens its scope by adding new content categories (animals and food), which
are somewhat distinct from the initial educational content (colors, shapes, numbers).
 Components of System Integration

 Application Programming Interfaces (APIs):

 It acts as a bridge between different software applications, enabling them to communicate and share data in a
standardized way.
 APIs facilitate seamless interaction, allowing systems to access and use functionalities from one another. They serve as
the language that diverse applications speak, promoting interoperability.

 Middleware:
 It acts as a software layer that connects various software components, applications, and systems. It facilitates
communication and data exchange between them.
 Middleware simplifies the complexity of integrating different technologies, providing a common platform for
communication. It enables interoperability and smooth interaction among disparate systems.

 Data Mapping and Transformation:

 It involves converting data from one format to another, ensuring compatibility between different systems.
Transformation refers to modifying data to fit the structure and requirements of the target system.
 Data mapping and transformation are crucial for harmonizing data across diverse platforms. They ensure that
information flows seamlessly between systems despite differences in data structures.
 Challenges in System Integration

 Compatibility Issues:
 Description: Integrating systems with different architectures, technologies, or versions can lead to compatibility
challenges.
 Impact: Incompatibility may result in data loss, system errors, and hinder the overall integration process.

 Data Security Concerns:

 Description: Ensuring the secure transfer and storage of data during integration is a critical challenge.
 Impact: Unsecured data can lead to breaches, unauthorized access, and compromise sensitive business
information.

 Complexity of Integration Projects:

 Description: Integration projects can be complex due to the diversity of systems, data formats, and business
processes involved.
 Impact: Complexity may lead to project delays, increased costs, and potential disruptions to normal business
operations.