Data is one of the most critical assets of any business. That’s why the tools and strategies for integrating data have expanded so rapidly over the past few years. In an age where information is widely available, it can be tempting to think that gathering data from disparate sources isn’t all that important. However, knowledge alone can no longer power innovation; data integration strategies are essential for every enterprise.
Here are five of our favorite data integration tools:
1. Talend
Talend is one of the most popular data integration platforms for a reason: It’s highly available and easy to use. All you need to integrate disparate data sources is a few code lines and a free trial.
2. Microsoft Azure
Azure is a good option for companies that want data integration without any on-premises software. You’ll also get transparent pricing and the ability to scale up your usage when needed.
3. Apache Kafka
Kafka is a great messaging platform for data integration. This open-source technology can help you send and receive large volumes of data over the network with certainty, making it an appealing choice for organizations that are just getting started with data integration.
4. Data Virtuality ETL
Data Virtuality (https://datavirtuality.com/) is one of the most powerful data integration platforms out there. With built-in support for multiple databases, plus a REST API, Data Virtuality can help you integrate your business data in a variety of different ways.
5. Tableau
Tableau is one of the best-known data visualization platforms out there. It makes it easy to create interactive dashboards and reports, but it also provides basic data integration features to help you get started.
Here are strategies to integrate your business data:
1. Take advantage of existing data integration options.
You need a robust data integration plan in place if you want to benefit from the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning. Support your data needs with platforms like Talend and Tableau, designed for this purpose.
2. Secure your data.
Your business data is some of your most valuable assets, so it’s essential to work hard to protect them from exposure. Make sure that you select a platform compliant with your industry standards, plus one that will keep your data secure.
3. Take advantage of ETL tools.
ETL is worth learning if you’re in the software business. It’s one of the most effective ways to integrate your data from various sources and make them available for analysis and reporting.
4. Integrate with a wide range of data sources.
If you want to use AI and machine learning in your business, you must have data from many different sources. Ensure that you have support for big data technologies and an open architecture that lets you access data from a wide range of sources.
5. Make sure that your database is compatible with your data integration platform.
If you want to use machine learning and AI effectively, you need to make sure that your database supports the data integration platform you’re using. Make sure that you choose a database that can handle diverse data types, data volumes, and data sources. One great option is SyteLine, a premier ERP software.
6. Integrate text data
Text data is vital for many business use cases. However, it can be challenging to integrate this type of data into your business without a reliable platform like Text Analytics.
7. Implement an on-premises data integration strategy.
It would be best to balance the need for flexibility with the need for security in your data integration strategy. If you’re working with particularly sensitive data, an on-premises solution may be the best choice for you.
8. Get feedback from your customers.
Customer feedback is essential for any organization that wants to stay on top of its game. Ensure that you analyze the data you collect to ensure that it’s relevant and valuable to your customers.
There are so many different ways to integrate your business data. Make sure that you take advantage of modern advances in data technology to ensure that your business can be as innovative as possible. Data is the new currency, making it even more important for you to make the most of every aspect of your data strategy.
