Everything You Need to Know about Integration Platforms for Associations and Non-Profits  

Integration platforms can be extremely useful for streamlining processes and managing data across disparate systems by allowing companies to quickly and efficiently connect their systems together in order to share data and automate certain business processes. By leveraging these integrations, businesses can save time and money while improving the overall efficiency of their operations. Here are some commonly asked questions that we’re happy to answer in an effort to help you better understand this powerful tool.  

Why the need for an integration platform?  

An integration platform is a tool used to connect different systems and applications quickly and easily. It simplifies the process of integrating different services, eliminating much of the manual coding that would otherwise be required. In addition, it helps organizations save time and money by providing a reliable way to connect systems without needing to invest in additional IT resources or technical support. Essentially, an integration platform can provide increased scalability, flexibility, security and privacy when dealing with complex integrations and is the best choice for businesses seeking to streamline their operations and achieve digital transformation.  

Integrations platforms come in many shapes and sizes, from simple connectors to complex automation engines. They all work similarly in that they allow users to define connections between different applications, then configure those connections with triggers, rules, filters, etc. These connections allow the applications to exchange data bi-directionally or uni-directionally, depending on what is needed by the business. Once connected, users can set up intricate mappings that define how data is converted and processed as it moves between systems.  

What are the benefits of using an integration platform?  

Integration platforms offer several benefits over traditional APIs. For starters, they allow businesses to easily connect disparate systems and applications without having to code complex integrations while also providing greater scalability and flexibility. Additionally, integration platforms are usually easier to maintain than APIs, as they can be automated using workflow rules, connectors and triggers. Finally, integration platforms tend to have fewer restrictions regarding security and privacy settings. Ultimately, an integration platform is the best choice for businesses that need a powerful solution for connecting different applications and services in order to achieve digital transformation.   

Can integration platforms help reduce Technical Debt?  

Yes! Integration platforms offer a more efficient development and implementation process, reducing the time to market and eliminating costly last-minute fixes that often result in large amounts of technical debt. Integration platforms can also provide better visibility into the entire system. This enables teams to identify potential issues early on and address them before they become major issues. In addition, automated testing can be used to reduce bugs and ensure code quality, which helps minimize the likelihood of accumulating technical debt. 

How to get started implementing integration platforms?  

Implementing an integration platform is a relatively straight-forward process, but there are some important steps you should take to ensure success:  

First, determine the scope of the project and clarify exactly what needs to be connected. You should also consider the number of applications that will be involved and whether any additional services or tools may be required. Additionally, it’s important to have a clear understanding of how data will be shared and what security measures need to be taken in order to protect your information.   

Once you have identified your goals and formulated a plan for implementing your integration platform, the next step is to select the right solution for your specific needs. There are many options available such as middleware platforms, custom APIs, cloud integration services and more. When selecting a solution, make sure it’s compatible with all relevant systems and applications, as well as offering the necessary security protocols for protecting data.   

Finally, it's important to set up monitoring tools so you can track performance on a regular basis. This helps identify any potential issues early on so they can be addressed quickly and effectively before they have an impact on business operations. 

With proper implementation and maintenance, integration platforms can help streamline processes, save time and money while improving the overall efficiency of your organization.  

Are consultants or other experts needed to implement an integration platform?  

Depending on your organization’s size and complexity, it may be beneficial to hire consultants or other experts to help with the implementation of your integration platform. These professionals can provide valuable advice on how to best configure the platform, including which features and settings should be used. They can also identify areas that may need additional attention or optimization after installation is complete. Expert support can help ensure the project is completed correctly and efficiently, while also reducing the risk of any potential issues or security breaches.   

Hiring a consulting service means you’ll receive valuable guidance regarding best practices for managing an integration platform over time. This includes tips on how to monitor performance effectively and troubleshoot any problems that arise. Consultants are also knowledgeable about industry trends and regulations, making them invaluable when it comes to staying ahead of potential changes in security standards or other compliance requirements.   

Utilizing a consultant to help implement an integration platform ensures that everything runs smoothly from start to finish, saving you valuable time and money in the long run.  

How much do integration platforms cost?  

The cost of an integration platform varies depending on the type and complexity of your project. Middleware platforms are generally more affordable than custom APIs, while cloud integration services may be anywhere from free to having a hefty price tag depending on usage.  

Depending on the solution you choose, and any additional services required, costs can range from just a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands. It's important to consider your budget when selecting a platform, as well as any long-term costs associated with upkeep and maintenance. Ultimately, it’s best to look at the big picture and determine if you will get enough value out of the solution over the long run in order to justify the financial investment.  

Who is responsible for maintaining the integration platform? 

This will depend on which solution you decide on along with the agreement set between the user and their provider. Maintenance of an integration platform typically falls on either the IT department or a designated third-party service provider. The core responsibility usually involves monitoring performance, responding to any issues that arise, and making updates as needed to ensure data security, integrity, and availability. Supporting activities such as data integration processes and documentation can also be added to simplify overall system management. Ultimately, it's important for all involved parties to work together to identify and assign roles to keep everything running smoothly.  

What should be avoided when implementing an integration platform?  

Here are some key things to avoid when setting up an integration platform:  

 1. Trying to do too much too soon 
Setting up an integration platform is no small task, and it takes time to get everything running smoothly. Trying to tackle too many projects at once can lead to setbacks and errors.  

2. Skipping the necessary steps for a secure system 
Security is essential for any business, so make sure that you are taking all the necessary steps for a secure system. This includes things like two-factor authentication, encryption, and other security features that should be implemented before going live.  

3. Not considering the long-term costs associated with upkeep and maintenance 
Integration platforms require ongoing care and maintenance to remain successful. Make sure you are considering any additional costs associated with these services when coming up with your budget so that you can plan accordingly.  

Are integration platforms better than APIs?  

Integration Platforms and APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) are both tools that can be used to achieve digital transformation as they allow businesses to connect different applications, services, and systems in order to share data and improve workflow. However, the two technologies differ in a few ways. For instance, integration platforms offer an easier route than APIs for connecting disparate systems and allow for greater scalability and flexibility when dealing with complex integrations. Additionally, integration platforms tend to have fewer limitations around security and privacy settings. As such, it is ultimately up to the user as to which tool is better suited for their needs – both Integration Platforms and APIs can be effective solutions depending on the scope of your project.  

How to get started with integration platforms? 

Getting started with an integration platform doesn't have to be a daunting task. First, you'll want to define your objectives and determine how many applications or systems need to be connected. Next, identify the resources and hardware you will need for the project, as well as any potential costs associated with those elements. After that, decide whether an API or integration platform is the best choice for your needs. From there, it's time to get into design and development. You'll also want to ensure that you are taking all of the necessary security precautions before going live with your integration platform. It’s important to perform quality assurance tests and monitor performance regularly after launching in order to keep the system running smoothly.  

What expertise or resources are necessary to implement an integration platform?  

Implementing an integration platform does not always require expertise or resources. Many of the more popular integration platforms offer easy-to-use tools for connecting different services and applications. If needed, many of these platforms also provide comprehensive support to assist with implementation. If you don’t have the expertise or resources available to implement an integration platform in-house, there are a number of third-party providers that can offer professional services to help you get set up both quickly and efficiently. 

Can we use Agile practices to implement our integration platform?  

Absolutely! Agile practices are an increasingly popular way to develop, deploy and maintain integration platforms. Agile provides flexibility, allowing you to make quick changes as needs arise, while still providing a structured method of development. It also helps teams work together collaboratively on the project from beginning to end. With Agile practices, teams have more control over the process and often improve communication between developers and customers.  

Are IFTT and Zapier integration platforms?  

IFTT (If This Then That) and Zapier are both integration platforms. IFTT is a web-based service that allows users to connect multiple apps, devices, and services across different platforms. It uses the "if this then that" logic to automate tasks. Zapier is a similar platform but with more elaborate features that allow users to create complex workflows and automate processes.  

How to make the business case for integration platforms? 

The benefits of adopting integration platforms are clear: by streamlining certain processes, you can reduce costs, increase efficiency, and improve customer service. Additionally, integration platforms can enable more efficient communication between customers and vendors, resulting in improved customer service. It’s important to remember that integration platforms provide significant scalability due to their modular design – meaning companies can add features or adjust solutions as needed without starting from scratch. All these factors make integrating an integration platform a sound business decision.  

When to start implementing integration platforms? 

Now is the perfect time to start implementing integration platforms. The benefits that come with these platforms are too good to pass up. First off, companies can save money in the long run by streamlining their operations. In addition, many of the leading solutions offer free trials or freemium plans which make it easier for businesses to get started without having to invest much upfront. Therefore, if you have determined that it’s time to take your business operations to the next level, integration platforms are a great way to get started.  

Wrapping It Up.  

Integration platforms are incredibly beneficial for associations and non-profits, helping them to save both time and money. These platforms automate tedious manual processes, reducing the need for human resources and freeing up your employees to focus on more important tasks. Integration provides an increased level of security and more accurate data tracking so that organizations can monitor their progress and make better decisions. As a result, associations and non-profits can benefit from improved efficiency while also getting access to powerful features at an affordable cost. 

There are several major suppliers of integration platforms. Each of these vendors offers a wide range of products that are tailored to meet the needs of various businesses, including some that support the integration of the specific tools that we use in the association industry. Additionally, many third-party providers offer implementations and services specifically tailored to specific use cases. Ultimately, it’s important to research each vendor and their offerings carefully to make sure they meet your requirements.   

If you still have questions or need help implementing the right integration platform for your organization, consulting an experienced professional can be a great first step to getting started. Feel free to contact a Cimatri team member who can help you make sense of integration platforms and which tools may be best for your organization's unique needs.