Technology Integration is a Business Problem Now
Integration used to be something IT handled quietly in the background. That’s changed.
Today, C-level leaders are recognizing that disjointed systems and siloed data are slowing down the very initiatives they’re investing millions to accelerate—like AI, automation, and real-time customer experiences.
Do any of the following issues sound familiar?
- Data that powers AI models is delayed, incomplete, or inconsistent.
- Manual processes persist because core systems don’t talk to each other.
- Lack of APIs limit the capabilities and effectiveness of AI agents
- Decision-makers lack real-time visibility, even after deploying modern dashboards.
- M&A integrations take longer—and cost more—than forecasted.
- Legacy tools keep dragging down innovation speed.
These aren’t just technical glitches. They’re blockers to ROI. Lack of integration is poised to make AI adoption a challenge to many organizations, as AI agents need a highly integrated and connected foundation to deliver their full potential. Disconnected applications, systems and data sources limit AI’s potential.
A recent Forrester study showed companies using an iPaaS platform achieved 383% ROI over three years, driven by faster implementation and fewer integration-related costs. In another report, 89% of companies said integration complexity was the top barrier to digital transformation.
It’s clear: integration isn’t just plumbing. It’s a performance driver.
iPaaS vs. Cloud Platforms: Understanding Integration Approaches & Tools
West Monroe works across the leading integration platforms—both iPaaS and cloud-native options—to help clients match tools to their business needs. While every organization’s needs are different, here’s our perspective on how today’s most common integration approaches compare.
