Data Integration

Dale Clifford
Good Business Kit
Published in
6 min readJul 15, 2024

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Data integration is an essential part of knowledge management. It allows you to combine data from multiple sources into a single, unified view. This guide will provide an overview of data integration, including how to get started, best practices, and examples.

Getting Started with Data Integration

Data integration is the process of combining data from multiple sources into a single, unified view. It can be used to create a comprehensive view of your data, allowing you to make better decisions and gain insights. To get started with data integration, you’ll need to identify the data sources you want to integrate, and then determine how to combine them.

How To Integrate Data

Data integration is a complex process, but it can be broken down into a few key steps.

First, you’ll need to identify the data sources you want to integrate. This could include databases, spreadsheets, web services, and more.

Once you’ve identified the data sources, you’ll need to determine how to combine them. This could involve using an ETL (extract, transform, load) tool, writing custom code, or using a third-party integration platform.

  • Identify the data sources you want to integrate.
  • Determine how to combine the data sources.
  • Choose the right tools and technologies for data integration.
  • Develop a data integration strategy.
  • Implement the data integration solution.

Best Practices for Data Integration

When integrating data, there are a few best practices you should follow.

First, make sure you have a clear understanding of the data sources you’re integrating. This will help you determine the best way to combine the data.

Second, use a data integration tool or platform that is designed for the task. This will help ensure that the data is integrated correctly and efficiently.

Finally, make sure you have a plan for how to handle errors and exceptions. This will help you ensure that the data is accurate and up-to-date.

  • Understand the data sources you’re integrating.
  • Use a data integration tool or platform.
  • Have a plan for handling errors and exceptions.
  • Test the data integration solution.
  • Monitor the data integration solution.

Examples of Data Integration

Data integration can be used in a variety of ways. For example, it can be used to combine customer data from multiple sources into a single view.

This can help you gain insights into customer behavior and make better decisions.

It can also be used to combine data from different systems, such as a CRM and an ERP, to create a unified view of your business.

Finally, it can be used to combine data from different departments, such as sales and marketing, to gain a better understanding of how the departments are working together.

Popular platforms to help you manage your business data

  • SnapLogic — SnapLogic’s iPaaS platform empowers enterprises by automating application, data and cloud integration. Reach digital business transformation with SnapLogic.
  • Quickbase — Quickbase, Inc., is a software company providing a low-code application development platforms.
  • Kustomer — With Kustomer, deliver faster, richer experiences to your customers with omnichannel messaging, a unified customer view, and AI-powered automations.
  • WeTransfer — WeTransfer is the simplest way to send your files around the world. Share large files and photos. Transfer up to 2GB free.
  • Box.com — Box is changing how you manage content across your business from simple file sharing to building custom apps.
  • Passpack — Passpack delivers a compelling value proposition for businesses as a platform-agnostic professional solution offering highly secure, organization-wide online password management.
  • Dropbox.com — Dropbox helps you simplify your workflow. So you can spend more time in your flow.
  • Pluralsight — Pluralsight is an online learning platform that offers thousands of courses in software development, IT, creative skills, and more. Learn from industry experts and gain the skills you need to succeed.
  • Microsoft OneDrive — Store photos and docs online. Access them from any PC, Mac or phone. Create and work together on Word, Excel or PowerPoint documents.
  • Hightail — Simple and secure file sharing with Hightail. Send large files, preview visual assets, collect precise feedback and keep creative projects moving in one easy and secure cloud-based software. Try Hightail for free.
  • MASV — MASV is the fastest and most reliable way for videographers and creators to transfer time critical files to clients. No limitations or plugins.
  • Autodesk — Autodesk is a global leader in design and make technology, with expertise across architecture, engineering, construction, design, manufacturing, and entertainment.
  • DocuXplorer — Document management software — flexible to fit your needs. DocuXplorer ensures your team has fast and secure access to the files and information they need at any time from any place. Embrace a more productive, paperless office.
  • Data Ladder — Data Ladder offers an end-to-end data quality and matching engine to enhance the reliability and accuracy of enterprise data ecosystem without friction.
  • eFileCabinet — EfileCabinet is the most secure, efficient, and affordable document management solution for businesses of all sizes.
  • Heap Analytics — Heap Analytics is a powerful analytics platform that helps you understand user behavior and optimize your product. It automatically captures every user interaction, so you can analyze user behavior without writing any code. Get insights into user engagement, retention, and conversion.
  • Act-On — Act-On is a comprehensive campaign management platform that helps businesses create, manage, and measure campaigns across multiple channels. It provides tools to automate and optimize campaigns, track performance, and measure ROI.
  • SecureSafe — SecureSafe is a secure online storage solution that helps you protect your data with military-grade encryption. It offers secure file sharing, password management, and two-factor authentication to keep your data safe.
  • NortonLifeLock — Secure your digital life with NortonLifeLock™ — the world leader in digital safety & security products.
  • Appian — Appian is a comprehensive business process management (BPM) platform that helps organizations automate and optimize their processes.
  • Acronis Cyber Protection — Acronis Cyber Protection is the world’s most comprehensive cyber protection solution, providing data backup, disaster recovery, and secure file access for businesses of all sizes. It helps protect against ransomware, data loss, and other cyber threats.
  • Clover Point of Sale — Clover is a POS system that helps businesses run more efficiently. It offers features like inventory tracking, employee management, and customer loyalty programs, all in one easy-to-use platform. Get the tools you need to succeed and grow your business.
  • SellerActive — SellerActive is the best multichannel e-commerce management tool on the market. Automate, optimize and expand your business!
  • ZoomInfo — ZoomInfo is a leading business intelligence platform, providing comprehensive profiles on over 100 million business people and companies. It helps sales and recruiting teams identify, connect, and engage with their target accounts.
  • Airtable — Airtable is a low-code platform for building collaborative apps. Customize your workflow, collaborate, and achieve ambitious outcomes. Get started for free.
  • SugarCRM — Sugar helps business create customers for life with the world’s most intelligent CRM platform. With SugarCRM, you let the platform do the work. Get a demo today!
  • Formstack — Capture data, generate documents, and collect signatures with easy-to-use workflow automation software. Learn how our workflow solutions can accelerate your digital work.
  • DocuWare Cloud — DocuWare Cloud is a cloud-based document management system that helps businesses securely store, manage, and share documents. It offers features such as automated workflows, document capture, and mobile access, allowing users to access documents from anywhere.
  • LeadsRx — LeadsRx is a marketing attribution platform that helps businesses understand the ROI of their marketing efforts. It provides insights into customer journeys, tracks conversions, and optimizes campaigns for maximum ROI.
  • SAP Data Services

Originally published at Good Business Kit.
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