We’ve previously written a blog about 3 common pitfalls with integrations and also about why monitoring your integrations is important. Because let’s face it: things can always go wrong. Whether it’s a failing connection or human error – problems are always lurking. Fortunately, no challenge is too big and no error message too complex to overcome.
Still, there are plenty of problems that we should not take too lightly, which is why we’ll discuss some common problems in integrations here. If you don’t address certain problems right away, they can grow into a real nightmare. On top of that, few real problems arise from just one isolated problem; it’s often a combination of multiple issues together being left for a longer period of time. So at all times, make sure you eliminate problems as soon as possible.
Some of the problems you want to avoid by letting the problems simmer:
- Loss of sales
- Unnecessary high costs
- Reputational damage
- Corrupt/inoperable data sets
So, grab a cup of coffee (or tea, if that’s more your thing), and let’s explore some problems in the world of integrations. And perhaps more importantly, we’ll offer practical solutions so you can enjoy your smooth integrations again, without sleepless nights. Let’s get started!
Data issues:
Many common problems in integrations have to do with data. Incomplete data sets, inconsistent data formats and higher data volume than planned can seriously impact your integrations.
Incomplete or poor data quality can lead to wrong decisions and inefficiencies, while unexpectedly large data flows can overload your systems. To avoid being surprised by such errors, it is necessary to at least apply data mapping and transformation. This ensures that your data can be transferred accurately and error-free from one location to another, while maintaining integrity and consistency.
It is also helpful to invest in data validation and enrichment tools. Regular data audits and implementing data governance processes help ensure the integrity of your datasets. It is also important to use scalable solutions that can grow with your data volume, such as cloud-based storage and processing. By proactively monitoring and making timely adjustments, you can ensure that your data remains of high quality and your integrations continue to run smoothly.
System issues:
System failures are a common problem in integrations and can be quite frustrating, especially if you are just starting out. One of the biggest challenges is when systems or software cannot communicate properly with each other because they are not compatible. This can happen when they use different protocols or data formats, and it can lead to data silos and incorrect data. A good solution to this is to use standardized protocols, such as an API gateway or middleware, which acts as a translator between the systems and ensures that they understand each other.
Another problem is the wrong choice of architecture. If your system architecture is not properly designed, many problems can arise. It is important to have a flexible and scalable architecture. Consider using microservices, where your application is broken down into small, independent services that are easy to manage and scale.
Finally, there’s the unstable middleware platforms. Middleware is software that enables communication between different applications. If middleware is unstable, your integrations may fail. Therefore, choose reliable and well-supported middleware solutions. In addition, it is important to monitor continuously so that you can detect and resolve problems quickly.
Failure to account for change in APIs
APIs are updated, features disappear and new features take their place. It’s important to take this into account and stay on top of these developments. Technology is constantly changing, so are user needs, and in some cases this is due to legislation or security. Whatever the reason, change is inevitable.
In order not to be at a loss for words after an update, there are a few things you can do to deal with the change. First, there is again, yes, documentation. Clear, up-to-date documentation ensures that you can clearly see the impact of certain changes. Communication is also key, both to your colleagues and other users; keeping each other informed ensures fewer problems.
Testing is also essential to ensure functionality. By testing whether current functions, apps and services work with new versions, you reduce the chances of errors occurring. So make sure you account for change at all times.
Finally, you might also consider using tools that keep you informed of updates and changes, via mailings or forums. By signing up, you can avoid ever being surprised by these types of changes.
Human error
Human error may also be at the root of problems within integrations; after all, no one is perfect. If all goes well, a plan is in place to make the integration run as smoothly as possible. When unexpected changes are made, surprises can occur. So try to be confident in your process and don’t deviate from your plans.
In addition, proper documentation is essential. Proper documentation will make or break your integration as it brings everyone up to speed on how things are going. We discuss this topic in more detail in another blog, which you can read here.
Insufficiently defined processes
In addition to doing your research, planning and documenting, it is also extremely important that you have your process requirements in place as well. Don’t just think about how the data is put together, an analysis of your systems and how they communicate.
But also think about how you deal with possible errors and how you test your assumptions. We would like to emphasize that you must have good protocols in place for errors so that problems can be fixed quickly. When testing, make sure that you do not test your assumptions in isolation, because in an isolated environment the nuances may be slightly different and you may get different results in a real life situation.
This blog has now given you the opportunity to defend yourself against all sorts of problems that can arise in your integrations. Some problems having to do with working accurately and human actions, and some with technical issues. But the common theme we see in this blog, as well as our earlier blog, is that a lot can be solved with good preparation and research, regular and thorough monitoring, and proper documentation. Once you have these three actions mastered and fully internalized, you will find that you can outsmart almost any problem. And remember, even when everything is running as it should, there is always a challenge lurking somewhere. But hey, without those challenges, life would just be boring, wouldn’t it? Good luck!
If you are curious about our services and the way we work, schedule a free non-binding consultation with Thomas.
