Application integration is a crucial component of modern business operations, enabling different software applications to work together seamlessly. This process enhances efficiency, facilitates better decision-making, and provides a competitive edge by streamlining workflows, reducing operational costs, and improving data quality. Key benefits include cost reduction, enhanced decision-making capabilities, increased agility, and improved data consistency across various systems. There are several types of application integration methods, including point-to-point integration, hub-and-spoke integration (EAI), bus integration (ESB), integration platform as a service (iPaaS), API-led integration, and event-driven integration. When selecting an application integration tool, consider factors such as future-proofing, broad compatibility, scalability, security, and vendor support. Common use cases include CRM integration, gradual system replacement, and ERP integration. CData Connect Cloud offers a comprehensive suite of connectivity solutions designed to meet diverse integration needs, providing secure, scalable, and managed data access across all your cloud applications.