Enterprise Application Integration (EAI) is the adhesive that binds applications financial (payroll), resource management (ERP), customer management (CRM), fleet management, etc. As information from different sources flows smoothly, it breeds a culture of automation, efficiency, and collaboration.
In an age where data is one of the most important components of any organization, the EAI system facilitates streamlined data flow, leading to data-driven decision-making.
What is Enterprise Application Integration?
Enterprise Application Integration (EAI) facilitates improvised data centralization through different applicable patterns like, Publish/Subscribe Model, and Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA), among others.
EAI enables a system where analytical reports provide insights for operational systems, enhance fulfillment processes, and resolve inconsistencies proactively. Let’s explore the ways how EAI is set to overhaul the future of the supply chain with some innovative trends and technologies.
Potential Issues Companies Might Face Without EAI
Companies working without effective application integration have to deal with a lot of problems and inconsistencies.
However, for these organizations, working without EAI may not feel like a challenge because they have built a culture around those inconsistencies.
Limited visibility and error-prone processes have become regular occurrences for them. However, many companies without EAI are missing out on opportunities and should take a proactive approach to addressing these challenges.
1. Working with Data Silos
Every department is likely to maintain their separate databases regarding operational performance, customer information, KPIs, etc. They might share data through spreadsheets manually, but that is not enough, making them vulnerable to making mistakes, and inconsistencies. Each department, with itsexclusive data will make decisions based on the data they have, which might not always be customer-centric and lead to frustrations.
2. Data Entry Errors
Without EAI, information integration on different systems is often done manually, making the process prone to errors. Manual data entry is also slow and leads to the wastage of resources. Imagine the same person or team has to enter similar data for the marketing team, onto the CRM, for the leadership, etc., and the extent of mistakes they may make in the process.
3. Poor Visibility
The lack of a unified customer view makes it challenging to gain a holistic view in sales, marketing, customer support, etc. Not only does this make decision-making difficult, it also blurs any problem areas and the opportunity to address customer frustrations in one aspect to make for a synchronized experience.
4. Limited Scope for Agility
Companies should be able to adapt quickly to stay relevant and resilient to the changing market conditions. The lack of unified data and a lack of real-time view inhibits a company’s strategic decision-making to move ahead with the market and seize new opportunities.
Future Trends in EAI Impacting Supply Chain and Logistics
A unified view of the logistics and supply chain systems emphasizes seamless connectivity, barrier-less data sharing, and effective coordination. When departments like warehouse management, inventory, delivery, order processing, order fulfillment, sales, marketing, administration, etc., are connected, it creates a logistical paradise for the teams across the company, giving them the information they need to make effective decisions.
1. Hyper-Personalization and Demand Forecasting
EAI is the catchment area bringing together all sorts of data onto a common platform. So, customer data from CRM, social media, order processing, and other departments creates a 360-degree customer profile.
Using artificial intelligence and machine learning models, you can predict the customer’s buying behavior and hyper-personalize their experiences with the organization.
2. Seamless Department and Process Connectivity
With multiple departments and processes running in the supply chain organization simultaneously, EAI creates a culture of interoperability and seamless connectivity.
As you work with a unified platform it’s easier to make decisions in the real-time and bring automation into company operations.
3. Autonomous Logistics Vehicle Collaboration with EAI and Blockchain
Going forward, EAI won’t work in a vacuum. Where AI, IoT, and ML will partake in its functioning, blockchain technology will help ensure a transparent and secure data exchange.
This will create a system for real-time interaction, data exchange, and communication between autonomous systems. Such a system has the potential to revolutionize last-mile delivery and warehouse operations, effectuating cost reduction and higher efficiency.
4. IoT and EAI-Enabled Sustainable Supply Chain Management
IoT sensors attached to packages, delivery vehicles, warehouses, etc., allow supply chain management organizations to track various metrics, including;
- Resource consumption
- Goods condition
- Vehicle condition
- Driver health
- Carbon footprint
- Waste generation
- And much more
Assessing this data, the managers can take a proactive approach in addressing areas of concern, implement sustainable practices, and reduce environmental impact.
5. Predictive Maintenance Leading to Higher Efficiency
Employing AI and machine learning algorithms, EAI can extract sensor data from machines, vehicles, and delivery equipment to predict equipment failures and vehicle breakdowns.
Prompt data analysis will pave the way for predictive maintenance and reducing downtime. As a result, it will improve work efficiency and product quality in the long run.
Step Towards Effective EAI with INTECH
Application integration is a potent operational system that brings together data from multiple sources and gives a holistic view. As a result, companies can make data-driven decisions to experience improved efficiency, enhanced visibility, and customer satisfaction.
At INTECH, we bring our years of experience and expertise in EAI to help you set up the requisite infrastructure, workflows, and procedures. With a proven track record of a 100% success rate in EAI implementation, we will build a bespoke implementation strategy, allowing your supply chain organization to experience maximum ROI.