Exploring the Pros and Cons of Integrations for Application Modernization and Extensibility

      Application modernization and digital transformation go hand in hand, and because 70% of organizations either already have a digital transformation plan or are working on one, it makes sense to be in the market for an application modernization solution.

      Integrations are at the core of application extensibility because they empower organizations to use business data from various sources to generate strategic insights. You can unite disparate business processes with integrations under one automated system. For instance, you can automatically import purchasing data, align it with inventory, and use the data to set budget predictions in your financial system.

      But with varying opinions about the strengths and weaknesses of each integration solution, it's not easy to pinpoint the best option.

      Here's a straightforward breakdown of the plusses and minuses of application modernization integrations with JD Edwards, NetSuite, HubSpot, and ServiceNow so that you can make a well-informed decision for your organization.

      Integration Pros and Cons: JD Edwards

      Pros 

      JD Edwards (JDE) features robust integration capabilities, giving you the power to incorporate many core business functions, from finance to warehousing to fulfillment to manufacturing. It also comes with prebuilt connectors and adapters that simplify the integration process.

      Cons 

      Even though JD Edwards ERP is a comprehensive solution, the integration process can be complicated. You need extensive technical expertise to execute certain integration features, especially when they span multiple versions and modules.

      For example, when integrating your inventory system, it can be challenging to align all the variables involved. For instance, even if you properly connect the Branch/Plant, Lot/Serial, and the three Supplier fields, inputting the wrong Doc Type can make one transaction look like another.

      JDE also has a higher total cost of ownership than other ERPs. When you factor in the staff hours required to get it to work according to your needs, the costs can edge even higher.

      Integration Pros and Cons: NetSuite

      Pros 

      NetSuite's SuiteTalk API gives you extensive integration capabilities in a relatively easy-to-understand format. You also get point-to-point and middleware-based integration, which enables more straightforward connections and better scalability, monitoring, and governance capabilities. With point-to-point integration, you directly connect different software systems. For example, you can connect NetSuite directly to Salesforce and your Amazon seller account.

      Middleware integrations involve an integration platform serving as an intermediary. For instance, you could connect eight different apps to one middleware program, and that program would enable NetSuite to interact with all eight applications.

      Cons 

      NetSuite ERP requires advanced development skills to customize the application to your unique needs. NetSuite can also be problematic in specific integration scenarios, such as the sizes of batches sent for batch processing and compatibility issues with specific external systems.

      For some users, NetSuite's user interface can be a little challenging to get used to. Some of it can be hard to navigate—at least at first—until you get used to the system. For instance, when integrating data into the Sales Order screen, you must choose from a wide selection of tabs and subtabs. Figuring out how to integrate information from other systems into the different fields on the Sales Order screen can be daunting and time-consuming. While this kind of integration may be pretty straightforward for a NetSuite expert, many face a difficult learning curve when they start.

      Integration Pros and Cons: HubSpot

      Pros 

      HubSpot's flexible APIs and webhook capabilities make it easy for businesses to sync data between HubSpot and other solutions and execute intricate workflow automation. HubSpot also comes with native integrations for marketing, sales, and customer service applications, making it a natural fit if you already have some of the more popular marketing and support tools.

      For instance, HubSpot integrates with Google Analytics in a few steps, making it easy to leverage data about your site's users, engagement time, and revenue generated.

      Cons 

      But once you step outside of the native integrations HubSpot CRM supports, you may face challenges with data mapping and executing advanced integration scenarios. These tend to require advanced technical expertise, as do some of HubSpot's customizations.

      In general, even though HubSpot's built-in integrations can be beneficial, you need considerable expertise when you start customizing the software. This makes it simultaneously appealing and limiting for those unfamiliar with HubSpot customization.

      Integration Pros and Cons: ServiceNow ITSM

      Pros 

      ServiceNow's REST and SOAP APIs enable a broad spectrum of integrations, making it one of the more versatile options on the market. ServiceNow also has extensive documentation and developer resources, which can soften the learning curve for those aiming to master the software.

      Cons 

      ServiceNow can be laborious to learn, even for relatively experienced developers, because of its extensive feature set. It also comes with many configuration and customization options, which can be challenging to grasp.

      Some may also find ServiceNow's support lacking, especially if they need advanced technical help. In addition, integrating ServiceNow can require hands-on technical procedures. This can be challenging for those without the time or in-house talent to get ServiceNow up and running effectively.

      Enjoy the Pros of JDE, NetSuite, HubSpot, and ServiceNow with GSI.

      JDE, NetSuite, HubSpot, and ServiceNow all offer flexible integration options for those looking to modernize their digital transformation journey. They all provide a robust set of features, allowing diverse integrations.

      • JDE can integrate with nearly every element of your business operations, giving you time-saving automation and reducing human error.
      • NetSuite provides straightforward integrations with some of the more popular applications thanks to its SuiteTalk API.
      • HubSpot gives you automation that can bridge otherwise difficult gaps between your e-commerce, customer management, and financial systems.
      • ServiceNow ITSM can save time on your IT workflows with its highly customizable REST and SOAP APIs.

      But you may face particular challenges if you're trying to do the work yourself. While each solution can integrate fairly easily with preset business processes, they tend to require advanced customization know-how if you want them to meet your unique business requirements.

      This is where GSI comes in. With GSI, you get trusted ERP/CRM integration experts. GSI's experienced consultants know how to leverage integrations to enable even intricate, complicated automation across multiple solutions. 

      Contact GSI today to learn more.
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