The main task of system-integration can be found in an existing operating system in a large company, in which the integration of the different systems and platforms will provide an opportunity for different types of applications to exchange data and information. However, it’s possible that there could be sophisticated systems which would provide us a solution for every problem. In this case we would not need system-integration. Some larger developers are working on creating solutions that would cover a company’s complete infrastructure. Companies usually oppose this effort, and for good reason. Firstly, it’s very expensive to have existing operating applications changed—just think about all of the consulting fees, migration, training, etc. On the other hand, it’s very rare that the producer of the administration system can offer solutions to other fields of information technology—namely electronic correspondence, application of group work, fax server, mobile communication (SMS, WAP), workflow processes, archiving, etc.

Here are some of the major problems that our programmers have come across while working on system-integration. Most large companies do have a need to solve the following problems:

SSO, single sign on: At large companies people need different passwords for entering each system. They have to use a separate key word for the company`s administration system, a different one for checking their e-mail, another one for using the company`s intranet site, the file-system of the servers, or the check-in system, etc. Dealing with all of the passwords and authorizations puts pressure on the IT team and the users. The solution to this problem could be the application of some kind of producer directory (NDS, active directory) or a check-in system, which is independent from the producer and that can be attached to any kind of current system.

Middleware integration: The essence of this service is that the middleware program is built in between different applications and will make sure that all data exchange happens without loosing any information and it only happens exactly one time. Banks are typical users of this system since for them data safety and reliability are essential. IBM MQSeries application is the market leader in this field and this is also what we recommend our customers.

Fax server: The most important part of fax server is that we integrate fax sending into the electronic filing system of the company. Sending a fax will be somewhat similar to e-mailing, and all users will be able to send faxes from their own computer. In addition, this service will enable everybody to use the company`s central business directory or address list, and incoming faxes will go straight to the addressee. With the help of the fax server, it could also be arranged that applications automatically send fax messages, for example, the confirmation of delivery, etc. Pont Rendszerház Ltd. has much experience in implementing and operating fax servers.

SMS gateway: This service integrates mobile text messages into the e-mail system. It will enable us to send mobile text messages to our colleagues or clients.

References