Middleware integration is the process of using middleware – a software that connects other applications – to connect data and workflows between tools. It makes processes more efficient for businesses with complex operations and pipelines.
If your company is considering middleware integration, this guide will explain the basics. Then, it will walk you through the steps needed to implement it for your business.
Types of Middleware
For businesses interested in software integration, middleware technologies fall into two categories: Middleware integration tools and other middleware types.
Middleware Integration Tools
Middleware integration tools act as the go-between for integrating two or more applications. The two main types of integration middleware are:
- Integration platform: An integration platform is a cloud-based application that integrates apps and data. Some platforms go into further categories, such as DCKAP Integrator, which does the job of an iPaaS but also provides specialized ERP-first integration. Another example is Workato, which bills itself as an enterprise integration platform as a service (EiPaaS).
- Enterprise service bus (ESB): An enterprise service bus (ESB) is a software architecture that connects different systems and applications through a central “bus.” ESBs work well for integrating legacy systems with newer applications. One example of an ESB is Mulesoft (now part of its AnyPoint Platform).
Other Middleware
All middleware involves integration because it connects various systems, applications, databases, or services. But besides the tools we call integration middleware, you may also discover different types of middleware. These include:
- Message-oriented middleware, which processes messages through message brokers
- Database middleware, which connects databases
- Object request brokers (ORBs), which link program calls between computers
As you integrate disparate systems and business processes, middleware will be the connector. These various sources include IT systems, operating systems, and software components. Integration middleware is just one type to serve you in the integration process.
Use Cases for Middleware Integration in Distribution and Manufacturing
Middleware integration serves a critical role in business applications for distributors and manufacturers. These use cases include:
Revenue operations
Middleware promotes seamless communication among the tools you use in your revenue operations. This revops umbrella includes marketing, sales, customer service, and financial services. Some of the relevant tools it can connect include:
- Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems
- Customer relationship management (CRM) systems
- Content management systems
- Marketing automation platforms
For example, ACI Controls used DCKAP Integrator to connect its operations and sales pipeline. Its sales and operations teams faced a divide. While sales worked in HubSpot, operations used TrulinX ERP.
The data between the two apps wasn’t connected, making it difficult for the teams to collaborate. So, ACI Controls implemented DCKAP Integrator. By letting data flow between HubSpot and TrulinX, ACI Controls became able to:
- Automatically create new deals in HubSpot when a quote appears in TrulinX
- Add new contacts and companies to HubSpot as needed if there is a discrepancy between the two apps
- Assign sales reps in HubSpot based on territory mappings in TrulinX
- Update deal stages based on their position in HubSpot and TrulinX
eCommerce channel management
Integration middleware also streamlines ecommerce operations, especially in stores with multiple channels. It can connect brick-and-mortar shops, ecommerce platforms, and point-of-sale tools. Data can flow from your ERP or CRM to your ecommerce tools or among your ecommerce channels.
While managing its operations in the Epicor Eclipse ERP, Edelman Home wanted to create a single info source for Shopify and Amazon. It used DCKAP Integrator as an ERP-first middleware solution to centralize its data in Eclipse.
The DCKAP team set up the integrator to enable:
- Stock updates that automatically carry over from Eclipse to Shopify and Amazon
- Sales orders that flow from Shopify and two separate Amazon channels to Eclipse
- Order updates that sync from Shopify and Amazon to Eclipse
- Bespoke customer pricing that flows from Eclipse to Shopify and Amazon
As a result, Edelman Home can now use Eclipse as a central hub for its online store and catalog updates between Shopify and Amazon. Its connected apps allowed it to meet customer expectations and improve transaction management.
Supplier Coordination in Distribution
In distribution, managing multiple supplier catalogs alongside your business’s can become complicated. Middleware solutions can sync supplier catalog data with your ERP for better coordination.
United Surface Preparation wanted to automate its inventory management by connecting its Epicor P21 ERP to 3M’s catalog. It used DCKAP Integrator to integrate 3M’s database into its ERP to achieve this goal.
After the integration, United Surface Preparation could see up-to-date inventory details in Epicor. It reduced the need for follow-ups with 3M and ensured more accurate stock data for its customers.
Warehouse Operations in Manufacturing
Middleware also works with warehouse management systems (WMS) to improve operations. Businesses can improve warehouse management in their ERPs by integrating a separate WMS.
Williams Trading Co. wanted to upgrade its Distribution One ERP’s warehouse management capabilities. So, it used DCKAP Integrator as a way to integrate the WMS Deposco.
The final setup synced the following data in Distribution One and Deposco:
- Products
- Inventory
- Sales orders
- Purchase orders
- Shipping details
- Customer details
- Vendor details
With this new approach, Williams Trading Co. could have warehouse employees manage operations through Deposco’s mobile interface. That same data would stay up-to-date in Distribution One on the office computers.
Middleware Integration vs. Custom-Built Integrations
The main alternative to middleware data and app integration is an in-house custom build. As you compare middleware to custom solutions, these factors come into play:
- Potential for customization: Custom solutions have the most potential here because developer teams build them from the ground up. But, this potential is also tied to how much money you invest in the project and your developers’ skills.
- Upkeep: Both solutions require some level of upkeep, but in-house solutions have higher maintenance needs. With a middleware solution, you will need to manage your workflows and data hygiene. But custom integrations also need technical upkeep related to changes in technology like API updates.
- Return on investment: With the two above factors in mind, the bottom line for your decision comes down to ROI. An extensive custom solution may be worth the money and labor if you have the people and resources to spare. But you may also see better ROI from a middleware solution with predictable monthly costs and less development time.
Overall, middleware solutions offer pre-built tools that minimize upfront costs and technical maintenance. And options like DCKAP Integrator can use custom workflows through middleware API integration and webhooks. Middleware saves you time and money on technical development to maximize your ROI.
Popular Integration Middleware for Manufacturers and Distributors
Integration middleware includes tools with different degrees of technical complexity and customization. Here are some popular middleware apps used by manufacturers and distributors.
DCKAP Integrator
DCKAP Integrator connects midmarket and enterprise applications for distributors, manufacturers, and retailers. It has ready-to-deploy connectors for ERP, CRM, and eCommerce software. Custom onboarding and setup allow for smoother integration that adapts to the user’s processes more than the other way around.
- Pros: No code and drag-and-drop interface, real-time data exchange, and B2B focused features and onboarding
- Cons: Not always suited for businesses outside of manufacturing and distribution
MuleSoft AnyPoint Platform
Mulesoft’s integration software, the AnyPoint Platform, is an enterprise-level SaaS application. It focuses on Application Programming Interfaces (APIs). In exchange for high plan pricing and developer effort, it has strong security and data exchange volumes.
- Pros: High scalability, numerous connector options, API-first design
- Cons: Not suited for midmarket businesses with lower budgets and smaller developer teams
Workato
Workato combines traditional middleware technologies with robotic process automation (RPA). Its interface focuses on no-code “recipes” for ease of use. But, it can still support advanced workflows.
- Pros: Mobile app available, over 1,000 connectors, built for cross-functional automation
- Cons: High cost for scaling, may still need high technical knowledge for complex workflows
Boomi
Boomi is an enterprise middleware solution centered around low-code development. Like other tools, it supports APIs and other typical middleware technologies. But it also supports master data management (MDM) and EDI data exchange.
- Pros: Supports both APIs and EDI, prebuilt templates, high scalability
- Cons: Requires high investments in money and labor at higher scaling levels
Jitterbit
Using an AI architecture, Jitterbit integrates different applications through low-code tools and API management interfaces. It can support enterprise application integration without requiring many development resources. This app recently added AI architecture for AI-based integration.
- Pros: Suitable for businesses interested in AI-based integration, low-code interface featuring templates
- Cons: Fewer connectors than similar competitors
Considerations for Middleware Integration
At the midmarket and enterprise level, adopting a new middleware solution can be quite the commitment. Think about these factors as you choose the right tool for integrating your company’s apps.
Compatibility with Your Tools
One of the top considerations in adopting middleware is a potential option’s compatibility with your current stack. Most middleware comes with pre-built templates or connections for popular business applications. Middleware that works with your existing tools is much easier to adopt than options that need extra development.
Budget
Cost can vary among midmarket and enterprise middleware tools. So, midmarket businesses in particular need to consider monetary investment versus return.
For example, DCKAP Integrator charges a flat monthly cost between $999 and $2,499. This pricing can suit both midmarket and enterprise users. But enterprise-focused tools can charge much more.
Interface
This factor is just as personal as it is practical. The right middleware for your business will have an interface that the users on your team can learn and use easily.
Your Team’s Technical Ability and Resources
Although middleware takes away some of the technical complexity of integration, your team will need some level of knowledge to use it. Tools with low-code or no-code interfaces fit teams that require non-developers to build workflows. Meanwhile, companies with developer teams can get more out of more technical options.
Options for Customization
Many middleware tools offer options for customization. Some give your developers tools to create a custom setup. Meanwhile, others have experts on staff who can handle application development.
For instance, DCKAP Integrator offers custom setup and onboarding options. But you can also involve your own developers.
Security and Compliance
The ideal middleware tool for your company will include security features such as:
- Access controls appropriate for your data security
- Data encryption
- Role-based access control
- Industry-specific security measures, such as HIPAA-compliant data protection for healthcare providers
- Secure data exchange for EDI transactions and other communications
Total Cost of Ownership
Also consider the total cost of ownership (TCO) for using the middleware you have in mind. Setup fees, custom options, and add-ons can all add to the actual cost of the tool. Also, if you’ll need to get your own developers involved, you’ll need to factor in the cost of their time and resources.
How to Perform Middleware Integration
The exact process behind middleware integration depends on your business needs and the middleware you use. However, B2B enterprise middleware like DCKAP Integrator often follows steps like these:
1. Plan Your Integration
The most important work in a middleware integration happens before you install. Before you set up your integration, have a plan that includes these elements:
- Integration goals: What aspects of your business operations do you want to make easier with your integration?
- Data sources and apps: What tools and data do you need to connect to improve your operations?
- Middleware choice: What middleware will help you achieve your integration goals with the data and apps you need to integrate?
2. Prepare Your Data
Next, you’ll need to prepare your data for integration.
After you choose your middleware, check your software tool’s data formatting requirements. For example, your software might ask you to upload a CSV or Excel file with specific columns. Format the data in your relevant sources and apps to match as needed.
During this process, you can also clean your data. Get rid of duplicate entries, fix misspellings, and fill blank fields.
3. Map Your Data
As you connect your apps and data to your middleware, you’ll also need to map your data. This process involves matching data fields from different sources. It keeps data transformation, the process of data from one source becoming readable for another source, consistent.
4. Create Pipelines and Workflows
Now that your middleware can read and transmit your data, you can create pipelines and workflows. Pipelines automatically sync data between sources and apps. Meanwhile, workflows set up actions that trigger when something else happens in a related app.
No-code middleware like DCKAP Integrator offers drag-and-drop methods for building these integration elements. Choose your apps and data sources, and then decide how you want them to interact.
Also, solutions like DCKAP Integrator can provide experts to set them up for you. From there, you can create additional pipelines and workflows if you’d like. But, the middleware team will handle the core of the integration for you.
5. Test Your Pipelines and Workflows
Make sure to test your pipelines and workflows before they go live. Use a copy of your dataset or a sandbox in your software to see how your integration works in a test environment.
Run each of your pipelines and workflows. Then, check the results in a test environment before using them with your actual data.
After everything performs as you planned, you can then apply your pipelines and workflows to your live data and apps.
6. Perform Ongoing Maintenance
After your integration goes live, make a habit of maintaining it. This includes:
- Managing workflows and pipelines: Add new workflows and pipelines that can serve your business better, and remove any that you don’t need anymore.
- Check your integration logs: Keep an eye on your integration’s logs for failed workflows and other errors, then correct those issues as needed.
- Maintain your data: Perform regular data cleaning and formatting, just as you did to prepare it for your integration. This measure will maintain your data integrity.
Best Practices for Middleware Integration
As you set up and use your middleware software, follow these best practices for a smoother experience:
Document Mappings and Data Flows
As you map your data, prepare your workflows, and set up data pipelines, keep records of these connections. Drag-and-drop integration middleware solutions like DCKAP Integrator make documentation easy. Record each workflow block and interaction used.
Prepare for Continuity
Create continuity plans for outages and high data volumes. As you test your integration, perform load testing to ensure that it can handle your highest data loads. Your planning should also include measures like backup cloud services and application servers for outages.
Get Technical Help When Needed
Even without custom-built integrations involved, middleware can require technical knowledge to use. Choose a middleware tool that comes with personalized onboarding, like DCKAP Integrator. These solutions also often have support teams that you can hire for additional technical help.
DCKAP Integrator: Integration Middleware for Manufacturers and Distributors
DCKAP Integrator connects critical business applications for organizations in supply chain management. Here’s how this powerful tool stands out from traditional middleware platforms:
- An ERP-first solution designed for B2B manufacturers and distributors
- Custom solutions and onboarding available
- Predictable monthly pricing with add-ons available
In other words, you get the best benefits of a custom solution at a consistent monthly price. Every plan comes with a set of services where we help you build your own centralized integration hub. Request a demo to see our easy-to-use interface in action.
Frequently Asked Questions About Middleware Integration
Here are some questions we frequently see about middleware and their answers:
What Is Middleware?
Middleware is software that acts as an “in-between” layer between different technologies. It can connect various applications, systems, and services. This software serves a crucial role in integrating business technology.
What is the Difference Between Middleware and ESB?
Middleware is a broad category of software that includes connector apps like ESB. Meanwhile, ESB (enterprise service bus) is a type of middleware that connects software through a central “bus”.
What is the Difference Between Middleware and API Gateways in Integration?
Middleware is software that connects different apps, systems, and services. Meanwhile, an API gateway is a service that manages API requests among other services. While middleware can integrate a variety of technologies, API gateways handle only APIs.
You can create a middleware API integration to avoid bringing in a separate API gateway. But, you may need an API gateway in more complex integrations, such as those that require protocol transformation.
What Is Middleware EDI Integration?
Middleware EDI integration is the process of adding electronic data interchange (EDI) communications to a software using middleware. For example, you can use middleware like DCKAP Integrator for EDI data exchange with WooCommerce.
