If you’re a data analyst or integration architect, you may be familiar with ETL (Extract, Transform, and Load), but less familiar with an integration platform as a service (iPaaS). iPaaS is a tool that helps move and shape data from source systems to target systems, just like ETL. However, iPaaS offers more functionalities than ETL.

In this blog, we will explore iPaaS in detail, including its specifics, advantages over ETL, and areas of implementation. We will also share some resources that can help you navigate the wide range of iPaaS offerings and stay up-to-date with the latest trends in data integration.

Moreover, we will discuss best practices for selecting the right iPaaS solution, including key factors to consider and tips for making an informed decision. By the end of this blog, you’ll have a clear understanding of iPaaS and how it can benefit your data integration needs.

Data, Data, Data!

The focus of modern data platforms such as cloud-based solutions is to simplify the process of transforming data as it is queried within the platforms. However, dealing with large amounts of raw data can be a daunting task for individuals who are not experts in data analysis. Before data can be queried, it needs to be transformed into a clean and easy-to-understand format with a well-defined data model. iPaaS is a cloud-based integration tool that can help with this transformation process.

iPaaS is a multi-tenant tool that can extract data from various sources, apply rules to transform the data, and then load the transformed data into a target system. The target system can range from a database to a data analysis platform to a system of record. Therefore, iPaaS serves as a tool for data integration and is a modern substitute for classic ETL tools used to combine data for better business decisions.

What sets iPaaS apart from Traditional ETL Tools?

ETL tools are designed to extract data from a source system, transform it to make it readable by a target system, and load it into the target system. However, ETL tools typically operate in batches and are not well suited for real-time or near-real-time data synchronization. Moreover, ETL is not ideal for connecting more than two endpoints at a time.

In contrast, iPaaS also performs extract, transform, and load operations, but it can connect multiple endpoints and establish real-time or near-real-time data synchronization. iPaaS often includes pre-built integration components, such as connectors for various business applications, which simplifies development and implementation.

iPaaS is a great choice for business analysts and other users who require data for BI and other mission-critical applications. iPaaS simplifies data interpretation by using business terminology that is familiar to users, and it is typically designed with a user-friendly interface that appeals to both technical and non-technical users. This is one of the primary differences between iPaaS and ETL tools, which can be challenging for non-experts to use.

Checking the ETL Wiki for Data Integration Solutions

The ETL Wiki is a new project initiated by Alooma that provides a comprehensive overview of various data integration solutions and covers several topics related to data integration. This resource is beneficial in providing a general understanding of everything one needs to know about data integration, starting from basics such as ETL and diving deeper into more advanced topics. Going through the wiki tree enables users to grasp the structure of the data integration space and understand how different topics and trends are interconnected.

Getting familiar with the process of Data Integration

It’s crucial to understand the process of data integration, especially for modern businesses that generate large volumes of data. To get a comprehensive understanding of the integration process, it’s recommended to go through a reliable guide to data integration. Such guidebooks explain different integration patterns and how to apply them to various integration scenarios. It is a vendor-independent resource, making it more useful for a broader audience.

If you prefer learning from physical books instead of online sources, the book also has a hard copy edition.

Choosing the right iPaaS tool using Best Practices

Selecting the right data integration solution is crucial for any organization, as the wrong tool can cause data corruption and lead to disastrous consequences. Therefore, it is essential to make an informed decision while choosing an iPaaS tool.

The first step towards choosing the right iPaaS tool is to ensure that you get a trial period for the solutions that you are evaluating. Although iPaaS providers usually offer a one-month trial period, try to negotiate for a longer duration during a personal call. During this trial period, take your time to test the software and make notes of what you like and what needs improvement. These notes will help you in the selection process and justify your choice to the budget holders.

After the trial period, even if you like the platform, hold off on committing entirely. Instead, take some time to build a proof of concept, and opt for the smallest pricing plan with the shortest billing period, preferably a monthly billing option. In case the proof of concept is successful, you can then move on to defining a pilot project. Make sure that the iPaaS provider’s contracts are flexible enough to allow you to spend only the required amount of time on the platform until the pilot project is finished, and the results can be evaluated. Monthly billing options are again beneficial in such cases.

Only after successfully completing the pilot project should you commit yourself to a specific iPaaS provider.

5 ways to stay updated on Data Integration and iPaaS

Initially developed to synchronize data between cloud-based business applications, iPaaS is expanding its capabilities to support data integration across various platforms, such as mobile, IoT, and BI, as well as on-premises applications. Although iPaaS is one of the most popular tools for data integration, it is essential to recognize that it is only one of several approaches and tools available. As data integration continues to generate insights for every business, keeping up with the latest trends and developments in data integration, including iPaaS and its evolution, is critical.

Here are five ways to stay updated on data integration and iPaaS in modern organizations:

Follow Industry Publications And Blogs:

One of the best ways to stay updated on the latest trends and news in data integration and iPaaS is to follow industry publications and blogs. Aonflow’s resource section publishes articles, whitepapers, and research reports that cover important developments and new technologies in the field.

For instance, Aonflow’s website provides news, analysis, and tutorials on data management, including integration and iPaaS. Similarly, Aonflow’s blog offers insights and best practices for data management, integration, cloud integration, data integration, API integration, and more.

Attend Industry Events And Conferences:

Attending industry events and conferences is a great way to network with peers, learn from experts, and stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in data integration and iPaaS. Many of these events offer educational sessions, keynote presentations, and workshops that cover various topics related to data integration.

One example is the Data Summit conference, which brings together data management professionals, industry experts, and vendors to discuss best practices, innovations, and challenges in the field. Another example is the Informatica World Conference, which offers sessions on data integration, data management, cloud integration, and other related topics.

Join Online Communities And Forums:

Online communities and forums are great places to connect with other professionals in the field, ask questions, and share knowledge and experiences. These communities can also be a valuable source of information on the latest developments in data integration and iPaaS.

For example, LinkedIn offers several groups related to data integration and iPaaS, such as the Data Integration and Cloud Integration group and the iPaaS Cloud Integration group. Another example is the Informatica community, which provides forums, user groups, and other resources for data integration and data management professionals.

Participate In Webinars And Online Training:

Webinars and online training are convenient ways to learn about new technologies and best practices in data integration and iPaaS. Many vendors and industry experts offer free or low-cost webinars and online courses that cover various topics related to data integration.

For example, Talend offers webinars on various data integration topics, such as cloud integration, big data integration, and data quality. Another example is Informatica’s training courses, which cover data integration, cloud integration, and other related topics.

Consult With Industry Experts And Analysts:

Consulting with industry experts and analysts can be a valuable way to stay informed on the latest trends and developments in data integration and iPaaS. These experts often have a deep understanding of the field and can provide insights and recommendations on which technologies and solutions are best suited for specific use cases.

For example, Gartner is a leading research and advisory firm that provides analysis and recommendations on various data integration technologies and solutions. Another example is Forrester Research, which offers research reports and consulting services related to data integration, data management, and cloud integration.

Final Thoughts

The world of data integration is evolving rapidly, and iPaaS is emerging as a popular choice for modern enterprises with complex data integration needs. With the increasing number of cloud-based platforms, data analysis requirements, and business use cases that involve modern technologies, it’s important to have a solid understanding of data integration and data integration solutions before embarking on integrating your data.

When it comes to choosing a data integration tool, it’s important to thoroughly test the tool before committing to it. Since data is a sensitive matter, you need to be sure that the tool you choose will deliver on its promises. Take the time to test the tool in different ways to ensure it meets your organization’s needs before making a commitment.