Platform integrations can impact a broad range of ecosystem actors. In particular, complementary and consumers might experience different impacts depending on the integration strategy.
The first decision platform owners must make whether to integrate platforms of the same or different types. If they integrate platforms of the same type, complementarities can be leveraged.
Streamlined LOB Processes
Streamlining workflows with an integration platform allows employees to spend more time on essential tasks. By eliminating manual data entry and transferring information between disparate applications, teams can focus on creating value for their customers. This boosts productivity, employee morale, and overall efficiency.
One of the most effective ways to streamline processes is to utilize an application programming interface (API). An API is a set of rules that allow applications to communicate with one another. It uses programming languages to transfer data from one application to another. It also provides a way for the application to interact with external systems.
With a well-integrated system, you can reduce the paper used in your workplace, automate processes, and improve communication across departments. This leads to increased productivity and employee morale, which improves customer service.
Using Gusto integrations can simplify and speed up the process of connecting apps. It offers real-time data syncing between your apps, and you can create multi-step workflows. For example, you can set up an integration between Due and LOB that automatically sends a new message in Due whenever a message arrives and then posts a message in LOB when the task is completed. You can even use the platform to integrate apps you already have.
Better Visibility
Imagine having clear visibility over every aspect of your operation — in real-time, at all times. With better visibility, you can drive continuous improvement and avoid being blindsided by unplanned downtime or production problems. Visibility helps you proactively make business decisions, set goals and milestones, and engage your people in new ways.
Visibility also means keeping teams accountable, and when workloads, project timelines, and due dates are visible to everyone, there’s no mistaking who is responsible for getting work done on time. This helps improve team collaboration and reduces the number of times managers interrupt people to ask them to stay on task.
Another important consideration when choosing an integration provider is the level of support available. Look for providers that offer comprehensive, high-quality support — not just email or phone support, but training, documentation, implementation partners, and more. In addition, a good integration partner should support all the major platforms you use and be ready to help with any other integrations you need to implement in the future. This is especially important if custom solutions must be integrated with your core platform. This is an area where the proper support can save you a lot of headaches and frustration and prevent costly mistakes.
Increased Productivity
With application integration, you eliminate information siloes and create a digital hub that allows your employees to connect their tools. This eliminates the need to bounce between multiple software applications and allows your employees to access the tools they need with one click.
For example, a fully integrated software ecosystem will enable you to hook your communication and collaboration platforms directly up with your CRM or ITSM systems, making it easier for agents to engage with clients holistically. In addition, an in-platform integrated help desk will allow your team to access and use screen-sharing solutions to support their customers efficiently.
A centralized solution for your people data lets you see and analyze employee engagement and total rewards, helping you drive business decisions and engage your teams in fresh ways. Unify your benefits, comp, and HR data across the cloud so that you can proactively manage programs, adjust to changing priorities, and set new standards for the people experience.
A streamlined system reduces manual intervention and human error, saving you money in the long run. It also ensures that your team members have access to the most up-to-date data and allows you to respond quickly to any challenges and opportunities. In addition, continuous synchronization means that your data is updated in real-time and can be accessed at any time, anywhere.
Reduced Risk
Integrated digital platforms reduce risk because they enable organizations to manage information in one location, making it easier to identify potential security threats. This allows organizations to take action to mitigate any threats that may arise quickly.
In addition, integrated digital platforms can help reduce operational and reputational risk by ensuring data is collected and stored securely. This can be particularly important in highly regulated industries such as healthcare, where sensitive personal information must be protected.
Integration also helps reduce the risk of human error. By integrating online people platforms with other technology solutions, businesses can prevent duplicate entries and streamline the data collection process. This helps avoid miscommunication and enables data to be accessed more easily for analytics, resulting in improved decision-making.
Studies have argued that integrating multiple digital platforms benefits both users and platform owners.
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