Top 20 Data Integration Tools

By Beate Thomsen, Co-founder & Product Design - December 31, 2024

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Data is more than just an asset - it is the backbone of innovation, growth, and maintaining a competitive edge. However, as a business owner or operations manager, you likely struggle to harness the true potential data has to offer. Valuable insights often remain locked away in outdated systems, isolated applications, or dispersed across teams. The consequence?

  • Slow decision-making
  • Lost opportunities
  • Inefficiencies that drain time and resources

Data integration platforms bridge the divide between disconnected data sources to deliver an actionable and cohesive view of your business. These platforms go beyond simple data management - they can maximise your company’s operations. Whether you are facing disjointed workflows, complex customer journeys, or siloed operational data, strong integration tools can help connect the dots.

Yet, not all data integration platforms are created equal. If your current tool feels outdated, cumbersome, or does not scale with your growing demands, it could be time to reevaluate. The right platform can do more than synchronise your marketing systems, ERP, or CRM. It can:

  • Automate repetitive tasks since the data is synchronized to your systems
  • Having critical business data available at all times to give you real-time insights of for example customer data for smarter, faster decisions
  • Transform team collaboration

In this guide, we will be exploring the 20 best data integration tools designed to help companies overcome inefficiencies. When it comes to data integration, it is not just about catching up; it is about staying ahead. Get ready to find a solution that will improve your data strategy and drive your business forward.

#1 Rapidi

rapidi

Rapidi is a robust iPaaS tool designed to simplify complex data integration, especially between Microsoft Dynamics ERP systems and Salesforce. Our software provides a comprehensive solution to help make notoriously complex system integrations simple, fast, and secure. Using a series of pre-configured templates to facilitate integrations, our platform is ideal for companies seeking an efficient and flexible tool without the need for extensive programming.

Businesses can easily integrate Rapidi with many systems because of our software’s real-time data synchronisation and pre-built connectors. These pre-built connectors are linked with well-known systems, such as Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance, Dynamics GP, Dynamics AX, Dynamics NAV, HubSpot, Salesforce, NetSuite and many more.

Our choice to include these connectors means that businesses can set up and run basic integrations between these (and other) systems. If your business requires something more intricate, our data integration platform can pull data from any system through SOAP services, direct database integrations, and API, among others.

"The best thing about Rapidi is that it is very simple - it just works,"– VariQuest (former Varitronics), Rapidi Client.
 

Learn how VariQuest used Rapidi to revolutionise their business operations - and how you can, too.

Top Features

  • Customisable options for businesses with more complex integration requirements.
  • Real-time data synchronisation for current, error-free data across systems.
  • Pre-built connectors for popular platforms like Microsoft Dynamic 365 Business Central, and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance, including earlier versions of the Microsoft Dynamics product suite such as Dynamics NAV, Dynamics GP and Dynamics AX, Oracle NetSuite, HubSpot, and Salesforce
  • Supported integration through direct database connections, APIs, Web Services, OData and SOAP services.

Pros

  • Rapidi offers a complete solution with transparent pricing, a monthly subscription, and a fixed implementation fee.
  • User-friendly interface with easy setup, which allows most integrations to be completed in a few days.
  • For its powerful data integration capabilities, €285 per month is cost-effective.
  • Rapidi offers helpful support so that users can quickly resolve their issues.
  • Support is included in the subscription.

Cons

  • There is no free trial available, but you can request a free demo before committing.

Pricing

Rapidi’s basic pricing package starts at €285 per month, with personalized support included in the subscription, which offers businesses a cost-effective way to manage their data integration needs with flexibility and quick support.

#2 Pentaho

pentaho

Using Pentaho feels like having an adaptable toolkit. One of the standout features is its ability to handle complex data integration and analytics tasks without overwhelming the user. The platform is flexible thanks to its open-source Java framework, which means you can customise it extensively with plugins to fit your unique business needs.

In practice, Pentaho’s simplicity makes it surprisingly approachable. Embedding analytics directly into workflows is straightforward, and its capability to process large-scale data ensures it grows alongside your business. Both non-technical and IT users can get value from it, though I noticed the interface could benefit from modernisation.

Although the tool is functional, it is not as sleek as some competitors. Additionally, getting everything initially set up might take some time if you are new to the platform. Overall, Pentaho feels like a scalable, reliable option for organisations serious about leveraging and unifying their data.

Top Features

  • Automated recurring tasks with scheduled ETL operations.
  • Handles expanding data operations, which helps support growth over time.
  • Supports integration with various data sources, including cloud and on-premises environments.
  • Provides flexibility for organisations to create custom plugins.

Pros

  • Simplifies creating and managing workflows with a graphical drag-and-drop design.
  • Provides free access to the source code, which increases flexibility while reducing costs.
  • Includes tools for data migration, replication, and managing complex data warehousing.

Cons

  • A high server load can slow down data integration processes.
  • Lacks pre-built connectors for certain SaaS apps.

Pricing

Pentaho provides flexible pricing options, which allow businesses to select the plan that aligns with their integration needs. The data tool also offers a free trial to explore its capabilities. The paid plans range from $25 per month per user for basic functionality. For large-scale deployments and advanced capabilities, paid plans can cost upwards of $300 per month.

#3 Actian

actian

Actian feels like a versatile data integration solution that adapts seamlessly to diverse business needs. One of its standout strengths is the ability to support various deployment options - cloud, on-premises, multi-cloud, and hybrid environments, making the tool a strong choice for companies with complex infrastructure setups.

From my perspective, its adaptability is a real advantage, especially for businesses handling large-scale or multifaceted operations. Actian is particularly valued for its ability to manage complex data processes while remaining user-friendly. That said, its interface could benefit from modernisation, and occasional performance hiccups have been noted during high-volume operations. Despite these areas for improvement, Actian’s combination of innovation and legacy experience positions it as a reliable tool for organisations of all sizes.

Top Features

  • Supports on-premises, multi-cloud, hybrid, and cloud environments for different infrastructure needs.
  • Provides no-code options for quicker deployments and ease of use.
  • Manages everything from real-time data synchronication to ETL processes.
  • Empowers businesses to analyse data across platforms for accurate and actionable insights.

Pros

  • Provides budget-friendly scaling with hourly pricing plans.
  • Has an established presence in the industry with more than 50 patents.
  • Combines modern features with traditional strengths to meet changing data demands.

Cons

  • Compared to newer competitors, some of the legacy platform’s underlying technology might feel outdated.
  • Detailed pricing plans beyond base hourly rates are not readily available, which makes it harder for organisations to estimate total costs upfront.

Pricing

Actian provides a free trial for businesses to explore the platform’s capabilities. Two paid plans are available. The Enterprise Plan is priced at $2.50 per hour with no-code data integration. The Enterprise+ Plan is priced at $4 an hour and offers private access and support for more complex application needs.

#4 Integrate.io

integrateio

Using Integrate.io means having a streamlined solution for managing cloud-based data integration and analytics. The drag-and-drop interface is a standout feature - it is intuitive and makes handling complex workflows feel surprisingly simple. This usability is reflected in its high G2 ranking, where the tool i’s celebrated as one of the easiest big data integration tools to navigate.

From my experience, Integrate.io excels at tasks like Change Data Capture (CDC), ELT, and reverse ELT, allowing businesses to process and prepare data efficiently. Its seamless third-party integrations and customisable workflows save time and reduce the complexity of managing diverse data sources. While it is a strong tool overall, some users have noted that troubleshooting errors can occasionally be tricky without deeper technical expertise. Still, for businesses aiming to simplify and accelerate their data operations, Integrate.io proves to be a reliable choice.

Top Features

  • Supports a variety of data sources and destinations for integration.
  • Provides strong data security and compliance with regulatory standards.
  • Simplifies data manipulation for analytics.

Pros

  • Designed to handle large-scale data processing, which makes it highly scalable for any sized business.
  • Pre-built connections for common popular business applications to save time and effort when unifying different work systems.
  • User-friendly drag-and-drop interface for non-technical users to easily build and manage integrations.

Cons

  • It can be challenging to troubleshoot intricate workflows, especially Xplenty flows.
  • Might lack advanced features available in enterprise-grade integration.

Pricing

Offering a free trial for new users, Integrate.io’s pricing starts at $15.000 each year for a Starter Plan and goes up to $25.000 annually for companies wanting the more feature-rich Professional Plan.

#5 Census

census

Census stands out as a data integration tool that combines simplicity with effectiveness, making it ideal for teams looking to avoid a steep learning curve. Its reputation for ease of use is well-deserved, with a stellar 9.1 user satisfaction score on G2 and endorsements from trusted brands like Figma, Canva, and Clearbit.

Using Census is seamless, especially with its reverse ETL technology, which transforms data warehouses into actionable resources. This allows teams to sync data directly with tools like CRMs, marketing platforms, and analytics solutions, enabling better workflows and faster decision-making.

The platform’s user-friendly design means teams can quickly get up to speed and see value without requiring extensive training. While it excels in usability, I noticed that advanced customisations can occasionally be limiting for highly complex operations. Still, Census is a go-to solution for businesses prioritising simplicity and actionable insights.

Top Features

  • Integration with popular tools and platforms for easy data synchronisation.
  • Automates workflows to reduce support times and improve productivity.
  • Reverse ETL tools to transform data warehouses into centralised hubs for business operations.

Pros

  • Designed for rapid adoption with minimal training needed.
  • Offers faster support response times and significant productivity gains.

Cons

  • Lacks detailed descriptions about some of the tool’s advanced features.

Pricing

Census offers a Free Plan that supports one data source, user seat, and workspace. The tool’s Core Plan is available at $800 per month and includes up to five user seats, multiple data sources, and additional workspaces.

#6 Precisely

precisely

Precisely brings decades of expertise to data integration, and its commitment to data integrity is evident in every aspect of its platform. After acquiring Syncsort in 2019, the company expanded its capabilities, introducing the Precisely Data Integrity Suite - a comprehensive tool for building and managing data pipelines. This suite feels like a one-stop solution, offering hundreds of pre-built connectors that make transferring data to new cloud platforms both quick and straightforward.

One feature I found particularly helpful is the unified data catalog - it provides a searchable interface that makes finding and accessing data straightforward, saving time and frustration. Precisely stands out for its focus on ensuring data accuracy, which is critical for businesses relying on clean, reliable information.

However, I noticed that the platform’s extensive features might feel a bit overwhelming for smaller teams or beginners. Still, for businesses prioritizing data integrity and advanced capabilities, Precisely offers a robust and dependable solution.

Top Features

  • Simplifies retrieving and managing data across multiple sources.
  • Enables Change Data Capture (CDC) for real-time synchronisation and updates.
  • Offers a searchable interface for technical users and businesses to locate and understand data assets.
  • Optimises performance to provide efficiency and reliability in data processing.

Pros

  • Easy setup for new CDC connections.
  • Ideal for creating efficient ETL workloads with seamless integration into cloud platforms.
  • Precisely Connect provides powerful tools for real-time data streaming and mainframe integration.

Cons

  • The graphical user interface is not user-friendly and could be improved by connecting to databases.
  • Compared to other platforms, the tool has limited functionality for data preparation tasks.

Pricing

Precisely has flexible pricing plans to cater to different business needs. After a free 30-day trial, Precisely offers a Basic Plan for $50 a month that is ideal for smaller-scale data operations. The Professional Plan is $900 per month and offers more advanced features and larger integrations. Finally, the Enterprise Plan has custom pricing tailored to the organisation’s specific integration needs.

#7 Informatica

informatica1

Informatica is a well-known pioneer in data management and integration. Its reputation is well-earned, with over 54 trillion cloud transactions handled monthly and a client base that includes industry giants like 85 of the Fortune 100. Informatica’s longevity since 1993 is matched by its continuous innovation, particularly in defining and advancing ETL and cloud integration.

One of the standout features for me is its grid computing and distributed data processing, which makes the tool exceptionally capable of managing high-volume, complex datasets. The platform’s code-free graphical workflow design and role-based tools make it accessible for teams with varying levels of technical expertise, while its advanced capabilities ( like dynamic partitioning and pushdown optimization) ensure efficiency even in demanding environments.

Top Features

  • Thousands of pre-built connectors for easy integration with diverse systems and platforms.
  • Distributed data processing to efficiently handle high-volume data operations.
  • Grid computing capabilities for scalable processing power.
  • Role-based tools for collaboration between IT teams and the company.

Pros

  • Even in complex environments, the tool simplifies updating and managing data architecture.
  • Easily manages large volumes of complex data, which makes it ideal for enterprise-scale operations.
  • Intelligent automation to boost performance and reduce manual intervention.

Cons

  • It can be time-consuming to debug workflows and mappings in Informatica PowerCenter.
  • Lookup transformations require high memory usage and CPU, especially for large datasets.

Pricing

Using a flexible Informatica Processing Unit (IPU) pricing model, Informatica allows organisations to buy capacity based on their needs across the platform’s cloud services. The tool’s base plans start at $2,000 per month while exact pricing details are not made public for advanced tiers.

#8 Adeptia

adeptia

Built to simplify business data exchange, Adeptia is a data integration platform specifically designed for non-technical users. Established in 2000, the tool addresses the challenges of integrating data across cloud-based and on-site applications while offering minimal reliance on IT support.

The centralized hub for managing protocols, formats, and connections keeps the process organized and efficient, while tools for automating data flows are intuitive enough for users with limited technical experience. The tool is also well-suited for fostering collaboration between business analysts and IT teams, ensuring projects run smoothly without unnecessary bottlenecks.

While its simplicity is a major strength, some users might find it less flexible for highly advanced customizations. However, for organizations focused on efficiency and ease of use, Adeptia is a reliable choice for streamlining data exchange.

Top Features

  • Offers an integrated web portal for configuring and managing partner roles.
  • Supports positional files, flat files, ANSI X12 EDI files, and more.
  • Facilitates data sharing between external partners and internal applications regardless of cloud or on-premises environments.
  • Unified management of connections, communication protocols, and data formats.

Pros

  • Centralised management improves integration efficiency and oversight.
  • Pre-configured tools and templates speed up deployment and configuration.
  • Simplified partner role management, data flow setup, and integration.

Cons

  • Lacks features to monitor data flow between activities.
  • Does not support dynamic metadata for real-time flexibility.

Pricing

Adeptia’s pricing starts at $3,000 per month with Standard, Pro, Premier, and Enterprise plans available. This offers scalable features to meet different business needs and budgets.

#9 Cleo Integration Cloud

cleo

Cleo Integration Cloud feels like a game-changer for businesses looking to streamline operations and improve supply chain efficiency. Its focus on ecosystem relationship management (ERM) is particularly evident, as the platform excels at connecting diverse systems and enabling smooth collaboration across the entire business ecosystem.

What stands out about Cleo is its real-time visibility into business processes. This level of insight allows companies to make faster, more informed decisions, whether they are optimizing supply chain interactions or scaling eCommerce operations. The inclusion of APIs, lightweight agents, and pre-built connectors makes integration with tools like WMS, TMS, and ERP systems straightforward, saving time and reducing complexity.

While some advanced customizations may require additional expertise, the platform’s overall reliability and ease of use make it a powerful solution for businesses seeking a unified integration strategy.

Top Features

  • Supports integration with WMS, TMS, ERP, and other back-office systems.
  • Provides a configurable dashboard that monitors data in real-time.
  • Offers a bird’s-eye view into business processes for complete organisation flow visibility.
  • Designed with pre-built integrations to easily connect with eCommerce platforms.

Pros

  • Supports various APIs, protocols, and legacy systems.
  • Comprehensive tracking tools and dashboards for betting decision-making.
  • Improves supply chain relationships and reduces risks of missed KPIs or non-compliance.

Cons

  • ERM tools and other advanced features can cost more for smaller businesses
  • Might require significant expertise and time for full deployment in complex environments.

Pricing

Although Cleo provides flexible pricing tailored to specific business needs, these pricing details are generally shared during consultations. While exact costs vary, Cleo’s scalability and features make it an ideal option for medium to large enterprises.

#10 ZigiWave

zigiwave

ZigiWave stands out as a no-code data integration tool that genuinely simplifies operations for businesses of all sizes. Its ability to connect a wide range of tools, including IT service management, DevOps, CRM, and monitoring systems, makes it incredibly versatile and practical for streamlining workflows.

One of ZigiWave’s most impressive features is its seamless data synchronization, which significantly accelerates issue resolution by ensuring that information flows effortlessly between platforms. The no-code design is a real game-changer - it is intuitive enough for non-technical teams to navigate while still offering the depth needed to handle complex integration tasks.

Top Features

  • Comprehensive documentation and support to guide users through the configuration and integration setup process.
  • More than 500 successful integrations, providing connection across a wide range of systems and tools.
  • Integration with IT service management, DevOps, CRM tools, and monitoring platforms to help unify business processes.
  • Faster issue resolution by connecting and syncing data from various sources for quicker, more informed decision-making.

Pros

  • Its no-code design simplifies integration and makes it easier for users with no technical background to use.
  • Wide range of integrations available for connecting different tools and systems.
  • Documentation and support features to assist users while setting up or troubleshooting.

Cons

  • Users might need to contact support to understand the tool’s full capabilities as documentation about specific functionalities and features is not made readily available.
  • Pricing details are not readily available and pricing might vary depending on the chosen package.

Pricing

ZigiWave offers two pricing plans: Basic and Regular. The Basic Plan is an annual subscription with one workflow for a fixed price. The Regular Plan provides unlimited syncs, workflows, and users. However, the pricing is not specified in the plans’ descriptions.

#11 IBM App Connect

ibm

IBM App Connect delivers a seamless way to integrate business applications and data across multi-cloud and hybrid-cloud environments. As a tool built for enterprise-level demands, it stands out for its ability to handle complex integrations while maintaining reliability and scalability. Features like redundancy, elastic scaling, and cross-geo failover ensure consistent performance, even under heavy workloads.

The platform makes it easy for organizations to connect their systems and automate workflows, unlocking measurable business value in the process. From my perspective, IBM App Connect feels like a solid choice for enterprises that need high performance and reliability. While smaller organizations might find its feature set more than they need, for large-scale operations requiring powerful integration capabilities, it proves to be an invaluable tool.

Top Features

  • Pre-built connectors for major ERP systems like Oracle E-Business Suite, SAP, NetSuite, and Microsoft Dynamics.
  • Powerful security with access controls, data encryption, and compliance features.
  • Built-in transformation capabilities including data mapping, enrichment, and transformation.
  • Visual integration designed for easy system configuration and data mapping without the need for deep technical expertise.

Pros

  • A wide range of pre-built connectors to help reduce the need for custom development.
  • Comprehensive security features to ensure compliance and sensitive data protection.
  • User-friendly design for easy configuration, even for non-technical users.

Cons

  • Some enterprise-level features might be lacking when compared to other high-end integration tools.
  • Additional development or configuration might be required to integrate with certain ERP systems.

Pricing

IBM App Connect is designed with enterprise-level pricing plans that start at $8.004 per year. This includes 10,000 virtual processor core (VPC) hours. The tool has additional pricing for a bundle of three app connections for $999.60 per year. Because of this enterprise-level pricing, IBM App Connect might be more suitable for larger organisations.

#12 Skyvia

 

skyvia

Skyvia offers an impressively simple way to manage, integrate, and back up data entirely in the cloud. Developed by Devart, a company with decades of database connectivity experience, Skyvia feels like a tool designed with usability in mind. With just a few clicks, it enables businesses to securely transfer, synchronize, and back up data between cloud apps without the hassle of manual setups or updates.

One of Skyvia’s standout features is its fully managed service. There’s no need to worry about upgrades or deployments, making it an ideal choice for teams focused on simplifying their data workflows. Its seamless integration with popular databases and platforms ensures real-time synchronization and reliable data quality management.

Top Features

  • Data backup and recovery features to safeguard business-critical information.
  • Real-time data integration capabilities, including synchronisation and replication for up-to-date business insights.
  • A wide range of data sources including Dynamics, Salesforce, Oracle, MySQL, Zoho, and more.
  • Direct data linking between cloud applications for easy data transfer.

Pros

  • Automatic mapping simplifies integration workflows for reduced setup time.
  • Bidirectional data integration is straightforward to set up and manage while supporting various business applications.
  • Maintains data quality with a wide range of integration features, including data validation, synchronisation, and replication.

Cons

  • In high-volume or complex environments, the tool lacks support for real-time data integration.
  • Compared to more advanced solutions, the tool has a slower synchronisation process.

Pricing

Skyvia is designed with scalable pricing plans starting with the Free Plan, which includes 2 scheduled integrations and 10,000 records. The Basic Plan costs $15 per month and provides 100,000 records and 5 scheduled integrations. Skyvia’s Professional Plan is priced at $399 per month and comes with 10 million records and unlimited integrations.

#13 Mulesoft

mulesoft1

MuleSoft - part of Salesforce - is an integration platform built to easily unify processes, data, and systems across cloud and on-premises environments.

Top Features

  • Extensive library of pre-built connectors tailored for enterprise protocols, databases, and applications.
  • Centralised governance for API scalability and security.
  • Supports AI and autonomous agents by integrating workflows and large language models across IT systems.
  • Empowers technical and non-technical users to automate processes with natural language, clicks, or code.

Pros

  • Easily connects disparate systems and data silos.
  • Offers no-code and pro-code solutions with extensive templates and documentation.
  • Optimised for building AI-ready foundations with secure API infrastructure.

Cons

  • Pricing for enterprise-grade scalability and extensive features might not be affordable for smaller businesses.
  • Enterprise focus and advanced capabilities may overwhelm smaller organisations.

Pricing

MuleSoft offers a free trial while the platform uses a customised pricing model tailored for different business needs. These plans involve subscription-based pricing for platform access, automation tools, and API consumption.

#14 Jitterbit

jitterbit

Known for its reliability since 2003, Jitterbit’s API integration platform takes the complexity out of connecting cloud and on-premise applications with SaaS tools through their Harmony low-code integration platform.

Top Features

  • Fast API and app connections for easy system integration.
  • Whether on-premise, SaaS, or cloud-based, the tool integrates with existing data platforms and systems.
  • Jitterbit Data Loader, Jitterbit Salesforce, and other specialised tools available for big data management.
  • Cloud-based software integration with built-in AI capabilities.

Pros

  • Comprehensive support with educational resources and a 24-hour emergency hotline.
  • Intuitive interface that simplifies complex integrations.
  • Streamlined data integration across multiple platforms and systems.

Cons

  • The higher pricing plan might be a barrier for smaller businesses.
  • The extensive feature set causes a steeper learning curve while onboarding.

Pricing

Jitterbit’s pricing plans are designed to suit different business needs. The Standard Plan starts at $1.000 per month and the Enterprise Plan is priced at $5.000 per month.

#15 Integrately

integrately

Being a newer player since 2020 Integrately's says their one-click platform solutions make setting up integrations easy and even for someone without technical expertise. 

Top Features

  • Consistently has high rates on G2 for functionality and usability.
  • Provides more than 8 million automation workflows for diverse systems and apps.
  • Designed with ready-to-use automation that connects multiple apps in seconds.

Pros

  • Extensive library of automation options for various applications.
  • Intuitive setup with pre-built automation for immediate deployment.
  • Affordable pricing plans for small to mid-sized businesses.
  • Free trial available for new users to explore the platform before committing.

Cons

  • As a newer tool, it might lack the advanced features that are available on more established platforms.

Pricing

Integrately comes with a free 14-day trial for new users to explore the platform. From here, the tool’s Starter Plan is $19.99 per month and the Business Plan is priced at $239 per month, which includes additional benefits and premium features not available on the Starter Plan.

#16 TIBCO Cloud Integration

tibco1

TIBCO Cloud Integration is a versatile data integration platform for connecting business applications, processes, devices, and data with a broad range of integration styles. Whether you are looking for event-driven workflows, API-led integration, or file-based solutions, the tool provides unlimited flexibility to meet different company needs.

Top Features

  • Includes a no-code interface to simplify hybrid environment unification.
  • Provides full-lifecycle API management and process automation.
  • Supports event-driven, API-led, and file-based integration.
  • Connects applications, devices, data, and processes with different integration styles.

Pros

  • Broad compatibility for legacy and hybrid systems.
  • Seamlessly combines legacy integration, API management, and automation.
  • Non-technical users are catered for with its no-code interface.

Cons

  • Some advanced features require extra costs.
  • Varied pricing might make it less accessible for companies with smaller budgets.

Pricing

TIBCO offers a 30-day free trial to new users. After this, users have an option between the tool’s Basic Plan, starting at $400 per month, and Premium Plan, starting at $1.500 per month with optional add-ons available at an extra cost.

#17 SnapLogic

snaplogic1

Using SnapLogic Intelligent Integration Platform feels like having a powerful yet surprisingly approachable tool at your fingertips. Its drag-and-drop interface is a feature, making it easy for non-technical users to design complex data pipelines without getting bogged down in code. Even if you are new to integrations, the platform feels intuitive, letting you build solutions quickly and confidently.

Top Features

  • Supports both on-premises and cloud-based deployments.
  • Offers extendable APIs for building customer Snaps.
  • Features a browser-based GUI with enterprise-grade ETL scheduling.
  • Connects data from SaaS, online, and on-premises sources.

Pros

  • Uninterrupted operations with always-on connectivity.
  • Users can manage workflows independently of IT teams with self-service integration.
  • Fast development and deployment capabilities.

Cons

  • Limited flexibility because mixed content in XML is not supported.
  • Despite having its own versioning system, there is limited support for standard Git repositories.

Pricing

SnapLogic’s pricing plan starts at $9.995 per year and offers powerful features for businesses wanting scalable and reliable data integration solutions.

#18 Workato

workato1

Founded in 2013 to streamline workflows and simplify business automation, Workato has become a powerful no-code platform. The platform’s “recipes” stand out - they are automated instruction sets that make tackling tasks like data loss prevention, error handling, and compliance surprisingly straightforward. Even without a DevOps team, you can create robust automations that keep everything running smoothly.

Top Features

  • Granular permission and access controls.
  • Fully no-code functionality.
  • Integration management for easy data handling.
  • Real-time event surveillance and tracking.

Pros

  • Support and workflow configuration are accessible and user-friendly.
  • Includes ready-made templates (called recipes) for automating common processes.
  • Simple to use, even for those with no technical background.

Cons

  • Lacks caching for extensive datasets.
  • Timeouts are known to occur when handling large data volumes.

Pricing

Workato’s annual pricing packages can range from $15.000 to $50.000 depending on the complexity and number of ready-made templates (recipes) needed.

#19 Talend Cloud Data Integration

talend

Talend Cloud Data Integration caters for telecom, retail, finance, healthcare, and other industries. Even for intricate data environments, Talend handles the integration process with ease and precision.

Top Features

  • Supports ELT, ETL, real-time processing, and batch processing.
  • Machine learning features for cleaning and data standardisation.
  • Easily integrates data from all sources in any format.
  • Operates in on-premises, cloud, or hybrid environments.

Pros

  • Helps businesses establish a structured data governance framework.
  • Offers self-service access to data through a unified cloud platform.
  • Provides strong privacy and data governance without sacrificing usability.

Cons

  • For source control, integrating with Git can be unintuitive.
  • Managing complex workflows can be challenging.

Pricing

Talend offers a free basic version. However, it does not offer users access to advanced features like AI-driven Trust Score, which is a key feature for many users. The platform’s paid pricing plan starts at $1.170 per month per user. Otherwise, companies can pay $12.000 annually for the package.

#20 DCKAP Integrator

dckap

Using DCKAP Integrator manages complex business systems seamlessly. It is especially helpful for distributors and manufacturers who need to keep their eCommerce, CRM, and ERP platforms in sync.

Top Features

  • Provides pre-built connectors and unlimited integration possibilities for diverse systems.
  • Includes detailed logs, flexible sync scheduling, and powerful reporting capabilities.
  • Advanced modifiers and mapping to simplify complex data transfers.

Pros

  • Scalable to meet large enterprise and small business needs.
  • Intuitive and user-friendly integration dashboard.
  • Easy integration with a large range of ERP and eCommerce systems.

Cons

  • Occasional instances where code is repeated within workflows.

Pricing

DCKAP Integrator provides flexible pricing plans that align with a company’s specific integration needs. These subscription plans include Standard, Premium, and Enterprise tiers, which let users only pay for what their business requires.

Data Integration Handbook

Key Considerations When Choosing a Data Integration Tool

Picking the right integration tool is vital for optimising data flows and streamlining your business operations. And nowadays many providers of data integration tools have emerged claiming they are easy to use, can be setup in no time and are easy to manage and maintain (the power of marketing :)). Before you invest in a data integration solution, you want to keep these key factors in mind to ensure what you choose aligns with your company goals and needs.

Connectivity

Being a core element in any data integration solution, you want to consider the tool’s connectivity. Ensure your chosen tool can easily connect to your required data sources. This should include ERPs, CRMs, and third-party apps. Look for:

  • Custom connector options: Make sure that you confirm the tool provides flexible ways to create custom connections if you do not have access to pre-built solutions.
  • API compatibility: You want to verify that the tool supports API-based integrations. These connections should also be actively maintained.
  • Pre-built connectors: With pre-built solutions, integrations with Microsoft Dynamics 365, Salesforce, and other common platforms are simplified.

Compatibility with Existing Tools

The best data integration platforms can work alongside your existing tech stack. If your chosen tool does not, replacing core systems to fit your new integration system can be disruptive and costly. To ensure this does not happen, you want to consider:

  • Ease of deployment: Your chosen application should integrate with other tools with minimal disruptions or additional middleware.
  • Interoperability: Make sure that your desired tool integrates with any current software your company uses. This might be cloud services, analytics tools, and ERPs.
  • Plug-and-play functionality: Research tools that need minimal customer development for compatibility.

Data Quality and Governance

Powerful data integration software not only moves data, but this system also ensures that data is consistent, accurate, and secure. When picking a tool, you want to consider if it supports automatic data quality checks and removes any inconsistencies.

Additionally, the best integration tools should provide features like role-based access control, metadata management, and lineage tracking. Finally, you want to invest in software that complies with privacy regulations, like HIPAA and GDRP.

"Effective integration tools must not only unify data but also ensure it is accurate, secure, and aligned with privacy regulations. Without these safeguards, even the best data becomes a liability,"
– Michael Bock, Founder and CEO at Rapidi.

Capability and Performance

Before putting down any money for a tool you want to ensure it meets the operational and functional demands of your organization. Ask yourself if the tool can handle the level of complexity and detail required. This will give you an understanding of the tool’s data granularity.

You also want to assess if the software offers real-time integration and if this is something your team needs. Additionally, evaluate whether your chosen tool can efficiently handle high transaction volumes or large datasets.

Scalability and Future-Readiness

The right data integration tool will keep up the pace as your business grows. To understand if the tool can offer this future readiness and scalability, you want to think about the following:

  • Cloud readiness: Cloud-based tools provide easier maintenance and scalability than on-premise solutions.
  • Roadmap alignment: Does the vendor have a clear plan for long-term support, new features, and updates?
  • Scalability: Does the tool have the capability to expand and accommodate additional integrations and increased data flows?

Cost Transparency

You want to understand the full cost of ownership for any integration tool before investing in one. Before the upfront cost, you should consider:

  • Cost-effectiveness: Look at the tool’s total cost against the features it offers to understand the value proposition.
  • Pricing model: Understand if the tool is usage-based, subscription-based, or a one-time purchase.
  • Additional fees: See if there are any hidden costs like required add-ons, training, or support plans.

Implementation and Support

The best integration software means nothing if cannot immediately start implementing the system and maintaining it. To better understand the learning curve associated with the tool, you want to evaluate if it can be set up without extensive technical expertise.

You also want to see if the vendor provides tutorials, documentation, knowledge bases, and training. Finally, check that the platform’s support is reliable and responsive. It should also offer multiple contact options like phone, email, and live chat.

"Rapidi proved its worth to us over a decade, and I would definitely recommend it to other companies,"
– Xsens, Rapidi Client.
 

Explore how Xsens used and benefited from Rapidi for more than a decade - and how you can start reaping the benefits of effective data integration with Rapidi.

Final Thoughts

Having all these above factors in mind make sure to investigate and check out the providers and see for yourself if they are willing to be transparent about expertise and experience in the domaine of data integration, knowledge about the systems you want to integrate, capabilities of the integration platform and the final costs and services when engaging with the integration provider.


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is a data integration platform? 

A data integration platform is a technology that facilitates the process of combining data from multiple sources into a unified view. This combined data provides an accurate, complete, and up-to-date dataset that is widely used in companies to support analytics, operational processes, and data-driven decision-making.

What are some examples of data integration? 

An example of data integration is making sure a customer support system has the same records found in the company’s accounting system. This enables support teams to access payment or billing details directly when assisting customers, offering an efficient and seamless customer experience.

What are the four types of data integration methodologies? 

The four types of data integration methodologies are:
Data virtualisation: Providing real-time queries and access, this approach creates a virtual view of data from multiple sources without physically moving it.

Change data capture (CDC): The CDC approach ensures data consistency across systems by tracking and applying database changes in real time.

Application-based data integration: This methodology uses software tools to extract, transform, and consolidate data into a unified system, which is ideal for complex projects.

Middleware data integration: Middleware provides data exchange and communication between systems, which establishes interoperability and automates workflows.

Is data integration the same as ETL? 

No, ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) and data integration are not the same. Data integration is a broader concept, combining data from various sources into a unified view. On the other hand, ETL is a specific part of the data integration process that extracts data, transforms it into a desired format, and loads it into a target system.


About the author

Beate Thomsen, Co-founder & Product Design

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As co-founder of the Rapidi Data Integration platform, Beate has spent over 15 years on its development, building it around her motto: 'keep it simple, functional yet beautiful.'
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