The Consolidation Payoff...

Posted by Brooke Lester on Aug 22, 2014 3:50 PM


In the ever changing landscape of technology, the way we did things a decade ago is probably not the most efficient or cost effective today.  There are many reasons companies may be running multiple application systems and although it may be functional for you, there are a number of benefits to consolidating redundant systems onto a single solution / platform.

Consolidating multiple applications and redundant systems onto a single platform can be challenging. But, when it's properly implemented, it can deliver substantial benefits.  A decade ago, there was a separate solution for everything; EDI, business processes, workflow, communications, etc.  Now all of that functionality can be found in comprehensive Integration Suites designed to handle all the B2B (and internal integration) needs of a company. While I understand the "if it's not broke don't touch it" approach, there are several advantages to consolidating to a single solution.

  • Hardware – Consolidated systems likely run on fewer servers, saving money on hardware, operating systems, and licensing.
  • Environment - The IT environment, overall, is simplified because there are fewer interfaces 
  • Quality - The quality of information improves as data is no longer scattered across multiple databases and applications 
  • Productivity - Productivity improves because there is less need for users to learn and work in as many different applications
  • Vendors - Consolidation can reduce the number of software vendors and contracts and cut licensing costs 
  • Staffing - IT staffing requirements are streamlined, with fewer systems that need to be supported; you aren’t faced with searching for technicians with hard-to-find legacy skills

There are many benefits....and they all have one common factor....Savings.  

In a previous blog, Stay The Course or Chart A New One - Decision Models, we have outlined additional considerations some of our clients have faced when deciding if they should stay the course with EDI translation software versus the deployment of more modern comprehensive B2B integration software.  You might find some of the same considerations when deciding if consolidating to a single B2B Integration platform is right for you.