How to Choose a Cloud Integration Solution

Angie oversees Cazoomi's operations. She enjoys traveling, loves dogs, is a 1% Pledge supporter, and a start-up entrepreneur with investments in several APAC startups. 4 minute read

How to Choose a Cloud Integration Solution

Digitalization plays a crucial role in the success of any business.

It’s no longer a hype. You have to speak digital, or you will get left behind by your competitors and, more importantly, by your customers.

But when it comes to cloud integration solutions, a lot of business owners are still in the dark. If you’re new to this, it may seem challenging and even risky.

However, various business models have been established to mitigate potential integration risks and challenges. Some of them include Salesforce to MailChimp and NetSuite to MailChimp integration.

iPaaS solutions offer a comfortable and risk-free way to integrate SaaS applications with other cloud or on-premise solutions.

Research shows that by 2021, the iPaaS market will be worth a little under USD3 billion, with a compound annual growth rate of about 41 percent.

The numbers speak for themselves. You can clearly see how cloud integration solutions are changing the way business operations are being executed.

But before you go cloud integration shopping, please read on. We would like to arm you with the right information on how to choose the right cloud integration solution for your business. It’s the safest way to save money and make sure that you get the solution that soars your ROI.

Consider the Dynamic Nature of Businesses

Businesses have different needs and goals. The need change as the business grows. It is essential to consider the current and future business needs while choosing cloud integration solutions.

Evaluate your business needs to understand the best model of integration. As your business grows, you may need new applications and systems. Make sure the integration solution you choose is scalable and that it is still affordable as soon as you grow your plan.

Platform Compatibility Should Be a Priority

Is the solution you are considering compatible with your current platform? How much time and money will it take to get things up and running?

What about cross-platform compatibility? Can you seamlessly switch between operating systems and browsers?

Ask all these questions to the integration solutions providers you have shortlisted.

Never Take Security Lightly

Data integration often involves data and contacts sync of shareholders. It is a legal obligation for the organization to ensure that this information is protected from theft, viruses, and hackers.

Choose a cloud application integration solution which has enough layers of security within the data center and the application. The cloud technology used should be secure and provide an easy integration tool for the systems.

For example, Salesforce to Constant Contact and MailChimp to Salesforce are fairly easy integrations to achieve. You can also opt for an in-house data system that gives you control over the data and updates.

Beware of Differences in APIs

Cloud vendors use APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) to control your data accessibility and usage. These APIs vary in capabilities, quality, and access among vendors.

It is important to analyze the technical documentation to gauge the APIs management protocol. This will help you understand your cloud vendor control over your data. It is also important to acquaint yourself with the approaches used by vendors before choosing.

Focus on Viability

Cloud vendor viability is crucial when making a decision about integration solutions. Focus on the financial stability and experience in the market.

Other factors to consider are venture capital and revenue streams. They will help determine if the vendor is capable of sustaining your long-term needs. A good cloud service provider prioritizes your needs.

Conducting reference check with current clients of the cloud provider via testimonials or direct contact is helpful. It helps determine if the cloud vendor is effectively maintaining its customer base.

Check How Data Recovery and Backup Work

Seamless data recovery or backup process is dependent on the vendor’s viability. Understand the recovery, backup, and contingency plans.

The liabilities likely to be experienced on both data and the platform are essential. These considerations are recommended for off-site hosting. You need to be sure that data integration is secure, backed up and can be recovered in case of any issues. The recovery process should be cost-effective and reliable.

The service level agreement is also crucial apart from conducting a due diligence on vendor’s viability. The document guarantees that the service provider is qualified to meet the compliance requirements. Allow periodic renewal of the contract instead of a long-term option to motivate vendors to deliver quality results.

Your choice of a cloud integration solution should not only be price-driven. Know and understand what your business needs then zero in on the right tool. If you need assistance, we are here to help you get started.