A system characterized by different applications or components working together as a unified whole allows data and functionality to be shared across those components. This synergistic relationship enables seamless workflows and eliminates data silos, resulting in improved efficiency and accuracy. For instance, a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system connected to an accounting package allows sales data to automatically populate financial reports, reducing manual data entry and minimizing errors.
The advantage of such a system lies in its ability to streamline operations, enhance decision-making, and improve overall productivity. Data consistency is increased, leading to more reliable insights. Businesses benefit from reduced operational costs, improved customer service, and a better understanding of their market position. Historically, the development of these systems has paralleled advancements in computing power and networking capabilities, progressing from mainframe-based solutions to cloud-based platforms.