TechDogs-"All You Need To Know About Data Integration Tools"

Data Management

All You Need To Know About Data Integration Tools

By TechDogs Editorial Team

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Overview

Surely most of us remember the iconic dialogue, "Data! Data! Data! I can't make bricks without clay.” by the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes.

Well, not just quotes but even the statistics gathered by one of the leading market research websites Statista emphasizes the importance of data. This site highlights that the aggregate amount of data created, captured and used globally has been extensive - leading to 64.2 billion Zettabytes in 2020. While in the next few years, data creation is estimated to grow to more than 180 Zettabytes! With this extensive amount of data, the need for its storage and integration is also more likely to witness growth.

Fun Fact: Do you know that 1 Zettabyte is equal to 250 billion DVDs! Just imagine how many DVDs we might require given the growth of data!

Phew! Now don’t stress yourself out with the calculation because this article is not about Zettabytes; it is about Data Integration Tools. Let’s begin!
TechDogs-"Cloud Compliance Software Decoded"- A Devil Talking To The Suited Man. ''What's Your Superpower?"
Armors…Shield….Mjolnir…Web Shooters….

Yes, you guessed it right we are talking about the super awesome weapons of our favorite superheroes. Well, it’s a no hidden fact that these weapons helped superheroes utilize their superpowers and #savetheworld (the fictional world at least!).

While in the real world, data has emerged as the superpower for brands and businesses. HR Managers require Employee DATA and Finance Managers need Numerical DATA, while for promotional campaigns, marketing and branding it is necessary to have Customer DATA. Given the tremendous contribution of ‘data’ in every function of the organization, it is essential to have it properly integrated within enterprise applications and platforms.

Data Integration Tools are no less than any of those incredible weapons used by superheroes, as they ensure data is integrated at one place.

What exactly are these Data Integration Tools? Let’s decode them in the next segment.
 

Decoding Data Integration Tools!


Now that data has become a superpower, Data Integration Tools are like the Avengers; they combine multiple inputs and enable users to derive more value from it. For example, when it comes to Iron Man’s armor, #TechDogsTribe is all praise for Mark VII. Not just because the suit was upgraded in terms of speed and strength, it also helped Iron Man intercept and redirect the missile and save lives (awesome scene... wasn't it!). #WeLoveHim3000

Likewise, Data Integration Tools are the armor that helps organizations bring together the systems of two verticals or consolidate applications within a single system to furnish an integrated view of the company's data. These tools are integrated with data governance and data quality management practices, as per the data integration requirements. Besides this, Data Integration Tools simplify the process of merging, cleansing and unifying the data.

Fun Fact 1: Do you know the amount of data stored and integrated by every industry doubles-up every 1.2 years!

Data Integration Tools have been through a brief evolutionary phase, let’s look at it in the next section.
 

How Did Data Integration Tools Evolve?


To understand the evolution of Data Integration Tools we would need to trace the emergence of database systems.

Before that, let’s take a moment to recall the iconic entry of Captain America with his shield. Wasn’t it enough to make all Marvel fans swoon?
 
We have all noticed the transformation in Cap’s shield and it is astounding. The first version of his shield was classic and slightly frail while the second version - the Vibranium Shield – was sturdy and mighty. Then arrived the spectacular Prototype Shield designed by Tony Stark in the #InfinityWar

In the same way, Data Integration Tools are no exception when it comes to evolution. As said earlier database systems are the roots of Data Integration. In the 1970s, the process of data integration was limited to ETL (Extract, Transform and Load). It was an era of structured content in the form of Data Warehousing, Data Mining and ETL. Moving ahead, the 2000s was more about web-based and unstructured content and social analytics and integrating data from social networks became common. With time and transformations, organizations required a tool to collate such massive amounts of data together.

Thankfully, Data Integration Tools emerged like a Prototype Shield to help brands and organizations enhance the functionality of data management. Administrators started using Data Integration Tools in filtering and transforming data. The present version of Data Integration Tools offers an array of several types and features. Let’s shed some light on how these tools work.
 

The Step-by-step Illustration Of Data Integration Tools


The process of data integration begins with collection of data from a varied range of sources.

Hold on! Hold on! Before we start illustrating Data Integration Tools, aren’t we missing something important? How can we forget Thor and his trusty Mjolnir! It could unleash destruction on enemies unlike the Captain’s shield or Hawkeye’s arrows. Every tool also had a distinct way of working – and so do the components of Data Integration Tools!
 
  • Step 1: Determining The Method For Data Synchronization

    As we said, data is collected from multiple sources and Data Integration Tools work on its proper synchronization. Wait! Before synchronizing the data, you need to figure out the system for integrating the data and fields for synchronizing (to properly merge the databases). After proper planning of integration, you can move ahead!

  • Step 2: Opting For The Right Integration System

    Cool! Now that you are all set with how you will integrate the data, it’s time to choose the right platform. Although Data Integration Tools work like cost-effective and bidirectional syncing tools for you, choosing the right one is a must.

  • Step 3: Mapping The Fields Across Each Platform

    Now, Data Integration Tools will start mapping the fields to assure that there is a seamless connection between the data and data platforms.

  • Step 4: Refining The Data

    After the integration process begins, a huge source of information will be accessible from your system. Data Integration Tools simplify the process of refining the data by setting up filters to prevent unwanted data from syncing.

 

How Do Data Integration Platforms Benefit Various Industries?


We all adore #TheAmazingSpiderMan aka Peter Parker - aren’t his Web Shooters just extraordinary! Peter Parker wore Web Shooters on his wrist to project chemical webbing. These Web Shooters helped him fight against mega villains like Electro, Vulture, the Scorpion and so on to benefit the good people of New York City. Just like his Web Shooter, Data Integration Tools also have extensive benefits for multiple industries (not just those in NYC!) - read on!
   
  • In Retail

    When it comes to tracking performance, having the data at a central location becomes essential. Data Integration Tools enable managing inventory and keeping track of labor hours, sales and other important metrics of the retail outlets.

  • Healthcare

    Treating patients requires a unified source of information as it smoothens the process of transferring data across the healthcare industry. Comprehensive data of healthcare metrics integrated in one place ensures cost control and helps in creating better health and wellness services.

  • In Finance

    Data Integration Tools help in consolidating the data from banks and financial institutions to evaluate financial status and avoid frauds.

  • In Telecommunications

    Seamless communication is necessary for a great customer experience. Data Integration Tools provide a 360-degree relationship between companies and clients. It eventually ensures that the telecommunication sector offers quality customer services.


Fun Fact 2: Statista (2021) suggests that 5.5 billion USD is being spent on data management, data processing and data integration each year.

Be it movies or technology, we always look forward to its future! Data Integration Tools also have certain upgrades reserved for the future.
 

Unlocking The Future Of Data Integration Tools!


Thor: Love and Thunder, Captain Marvel 2 and Black Panther 2 are a few of the most exciting future ventures of Marvel and we are eagerly waiting to explore this adventurous cinematic world. In the same way, the future of Data Integration Tools also has something very exciting for you!

While the present versions of Data Integration Tools can be a bit time-consuming, the future will make the entire process more flexible. Whereas Machine Learning would transform structured data frames (storage of abstract data) to make them more appealing and useable for developers.

Data integration requires a massive space and there are multiple reasons behind keeping the data consolidated. Data Integration Tools would leverage data engineering trends (like real-world data science applications) to make them more appealing to the technical audience. The future of data integration will have many more niche players that would require a renewed reliance on the open-source community to scale up with new SaaS (Software as a Service) platforms.

Fun Fact 3: Do you want to satiate your hunger for information related to the #techworld along with a dose of entertainment? The good news is TechDogs is here to do just that!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Data Integration Tools, and why are they important for businesses?


Data Integration Tools are essential software solutions that enable organizations to consolidate data from various sources into a single, unified platform. Much like the Avengers assemble to tackle threats, Data Integration Tools bring together disparate data streams from different departments or applications within an organization. They streamline the process of merging, cleansing, and unifying data, providing businesses with an integrated view of their data landscape. By facilitating seamless data integration, these tools empower businesses to make informed decisions, improve operational efficiency, and enhance overall productivity across various functions.

How have Data Integration Tools evolved over time?


Data Integration Tools have undergone significant evolution parallel to advancements in technology and changing business needs. Initially, in the 1970s, data integration was primarily limited to Extract, Transform, Load (ETL) processes, focusing on structured content such as Data Warehousing and Data Mining. However, with the advent of web-based and unstructured content in the 2000s, the scope of data integration expanded to include social analytics and integrating data from social networks. Over time, organizations demanded more robust tools to handle the increasing volume and complexity of data. Modern Data Integration Tools offer a wide range of functionalities, from filtering and transforming data to comprehensive data governance and quality management practices.

How do Data Integration Platforms benefit various industries?


Data Integration Platforms offer extensive benefits across various industries, akin to superheroes utilizing their unique abilities to protect and serve. In retail, these platforms facilitate inventory management, labor tracking, and sales analytics, enabling businesses to optimize operations and enhance customer experiences. In healthcare, unified data sources streamline patient care processes, control costs, and improve service quality. Financial institutions leverage Data Integration Tools to consolidate data for financial analysis and fraud detection. Telecommunication companies utilize these platforms to ensure seamless communication and deliver quality customer service experiences. Overall, Data Integration Platforms play a crucial role in driving efficiency, productivity, and innovation across diverse sectors, contributing to their growth and success in the digital age.

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