Two-Way or Bi-directional SynchronizationĪnother important way to think about data synchronization is how it syncs. Like data integration, data synchronization can be a type of data replication, but not all data synchronizations are full replications of data. These terms both talk about sets of data, but focus on different qualities of the data set.

Data replication suggests that there are two or more complete and identical copies of data. Data Replicationĭata synchronization suggests that there are multiple copies of up-to-date data. In short, data synchronization is a type of integration, but not all integration processes result in a true sync of the data. The key word here is 'keep', as it's an ongoing process between different tools. But, unlike other integration processes, synchronization has the power to keep databases in continuous communication.

There are lots of different ways to achieve integration. Synchronization is a type of integration in which data stays consistent between two or more databases. Data integration means combining two or more pieces of software so that they're working in tandem. These two concepts are similar, but they're not synonymous. You can produce reliable and actionable reports, make informed decisions, communicate transparently, and align your departments toward common goals. Synchronized data means that you can have a clear view of all aspects of business intelligence. When business data isn’t in sync, it can lead to all sorts of challenges, such as: With information coming in from so many sources, it's easy for databases to become disjointed and disorganized if they're not talking to one another. It's an ongoing process for new and historic data.Įach business collects and handles data through dozens of different apps, and many companies work with over 200 software tools. Data synchronization is the process of consolidating data across different sources, applications, and devices while maintaining consistency.

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