A possible disadvantage is that data warehousing tools currently operate in batch mode, though new products are beginning to appear that will enable companies to perform more frequent updates. They bypass application-level business logic designed to manage the data. For example, one application might include mechanisms that prevent users from entering certain data into a particular field, such as letters into a field meant to hold numbers. If that application is tied to another that lacks such business rules, a user could enter erroneous data. To prevent such a mistake, developers must rewrite the business logic at the database level using tools such as triggers and stored procedures.
Automate business processes in near-real time by integrating existing applications.
Messaging technology that can route information between applications. Simplifying Integration, Maintenance EAI products, the newest option for integration, offer a platform with a common set of services and methodologies. They reduce the time it takes to integrate applications, and they slash maintenance costs by providing a consistent set of tools and interfaces. Cargill uses event-level integration to link a variety of business applications to support business processes, including manufacturing, scheduling, transportation planning and costing. Without knowing they re using different applications, a Cargill employee could, for example, place an order for a product through the financial system, look up the product in the inventory system, schedule delivery of the product with the scheduling system and arrange transportation in yet another application.