Data integration and migration are two crucial processes involving data management and digital transformation, each serving distinct purposes. While they both involve the movement of data, they differ significantly in their objectives, methodologies, and outcomes.
DataBlend frequently deals with data integration but is often asked if it can assist with data migration. Despite their similarities, they have differences, which we will discuss in this blog.
Data integration is the continuous, automated process of combining data from various sources, performing some operation on the data, and posting the transformed data to designated targets.
Key Characteristics of Data Integration:
In summary data integration is an automated process that involves moving information from one application to another, which is usually different from the same type of application (e.g., CRM to ERP: Salesforce to Sage Intacct). Data integration involves more than just mapping data; it requires creating a new target (i.e., a new entry).
Data migration is often more of a manual, but sometimes automated process of transferring data from one system or environment to another, typically associated with a new system deployment.
In summary, data migration is a static process that involves transferring data from one similar application to another (e.g., ERP to ERP: QuickBooks to Sage Intacct). For example, you may need to reformat date data by separating single streams of numbers depending on the system you are transferring to. Mapping and transformation are critical to data migration.
It is easy to understand why data integration and migration are easily confused, with frequency and types of systems being the key differentiators.
Key differences between data integration and migration:
In summary, data integration and data migration are two distinct processes with different objectives and characteristics. Data integration automates dataflows between applications. In contrast, data migration involves moving data from one system to another. Understanding these differences is crucial for effective data management in modern organizations.
DataBlend is in the business of integrating your dataflows to solve your business challenges. To learn more about what finance and accounting systems that DataBlend can connect, visit: https://datablend.com/integrations/
Also, check out our infographic below!