iPaaS: what are they and what are their benefits?

iPaaS is a cloud-based platform that connects various applications, systems and technologies within the cloud and enables the implementation and maintenance of integration flows without the need for hardware or middleware. Now we tell you much more.

what are the differences between iPaaS and PaaS?

Although iPaaS and PaaS are only one letter apart, their functionality is completely different. A PaaS is basically a toolbox with generic features that developers can use to create their own applications. PaaS supports different aspects of an application. In addition to development tools, PaaS providers offer operating systems, business analytics, storage options and data management solutions. With the latter option, your developers could create data integrations without too much trouble. Typically, companies that work with this type of provider are medium-sized enterprises.

Smaller companies working with different applications will need an iPaaS at some point. The main reason is that those applications were not created by the same vendors and are not natively connected, whereas applications created in PaaS usually live in the same environment. Like PaaS, some iPaaS providers offer a very complete set of features; the difference is that those features are focused exclusively on integration.

Last but not least, to work with PaaS you will need a team of developers, whereas iPaaS tools are generally built so that anyone on any team can create an integration without coding.

what are the benefits of implementing an iPaaS?

1. single solution - Instead of building separate software to meet their needs, consumers can use one platform that connects to all their software in one convenient cloud-based location, eliminating the need to procure and deploy their technology in different environments.
   
   
2. organised data - Consumers can access all their data in one place and set rules for how that data is organised and accessed. Then, as they work with different systems, all those systems will display data in a way that is easy to interpret. All of this makes data analysis, interpretation and application easier and more accurate.
   
   
3. improved communication: One platform means one source of truth; data is shared within the same ecosystem, so no important information is lost and everyone has the same access, leaving no room for misinterpretation.
   
   
4. better workflow - less time switching between tools means more time to work and having a central place where all that work gets done, so having a single platform creates a more efficient environment for team dynamics and workflows.
   
   
5. eliminate silos - Third-party integrations can be created and deployed across multiple environments. This may not be a problem when there are only a few connections; however, as a company develops its offerings to become a more robust entity, integrations can become scattered, creating clutter where information is hidden from view or difficult to access.
   
   
6. real-time processing - Enables real-time data sharing and processing, eliminating access delays and providing a fast, accessible solution.
   
   
7. increased efficiency - mitigates confusion, data loss and inconsistencies by creating a centralised system for managing all parties involved.
   
   
8. centralised management - Create a virtual view to manage connections across the platform. Instead of one person or team managing different integrations, they can all be accessed from a single console.
   
   
9. multi-tenancy - Typically, each user accessing the software requires their own instance. Similar to how each person on a call needs their own dial-up connection, an instance is created each time someone accesses the software. An iPaaS allows for shared instances between tenants, eliminating overhead, reducing costs and increasing speed of use.
   
   
10. improved security and compliance. Security threats are inevitable in any environment, especially in the cloud. iPaaS solutions offer fraud detection and intrusion alerts, but the real benefit is that a centralised platform makes it easier to see where those threats are and respond appropriately. In addition, a platform simplifies compliance by implementing changes in a single environment.

To conclude our article, we remind you that as you continue to move towards cloud-based options, an iPaaS becomes the most viable solution for eliminating the friction associated with disparate systems and for connecting all applications and data between your organisation and third parties. A single source that connects all the systems you use to grow your business is an important step towards better growth, because if you are connected and synchronised, you can go further. Thanks for reading us!