Enterprise integration is the effort to create connections between the different resources available in order to establish a viable company operation. The idea behind this type of integration strategy is to relate the use of people, technology, and equipment in a manner that produces an efficient working environment. In order to accomplish enterprise integration, it is often necessary to establish and follow processes and procedures that allow for the efficient flow of information between different internal systems and arrange the use of that information so that the company benefits to the greatest degree possible.
Considered an important process in creating a corporate culture that is interconnected rather than segmented, enterprise integration will often make use of technology as a means of controlling the utilization of data within the organization. Using the right technology, especially in terms of the best possible network systems and connected computer devices and the right types of software programs, the company can help to reduce the housing of information in several different stand-alone databases or programs and instead use central programs that are updated in real-time from a variety of sources throughout the company structure. With the use of access credentials that help to define what type of data any one employee may access, it is possible to make sure employees have access to what they need while denying access to information that is not related to their particular responsibilities.
The process of enterprise integration can also extend to interfacing with equipment and increasing the ability to relay data that managers need to effectively oversee production quotas, supply managers to assess usage of certain materials and components and base ordering on that usage, and even for workers to track their current hourly output as a means of determining if they are producing an appreciable number of units per working hour. For example, manufacturing equipment may be enhanced with the addition of computer drive production software that monitors the output of each machine, allowing both operators and managers to quickly assess the hourly output in comparison to production standards. This in turn empowers both managers and operators to work together and finds ways to correct issues that may be interfering with producing reasonable output per operational hour, a process that ultimately benefits everyone concerned.
Companies of all sizes can make use of the essentials of enterprise integration. All that is required is a clear understanding of the resources available to achieve the company goals and finding ways to connect or relate those assets in the way the business operates. The integration may involve creating connections between several departments or employees within a business operating with a single location, or creating a comprehensive enterprise integration plan that encompasses multiple facilities located in several different locations. As long as the plan for integration makes the best possible use of information sharing and helps to reduce the unnecessary duplication of effort, the business is sure to benefit.
