Step 11: Define the Value

With the hard part out of the way, it's time to define the value of the application integration solution, to determine the business value of integrating systems. In this scenario, the method of determining value is generally evaluating the dollars that will be saved by a successful application integration solution. Two things should be considered here: Soft- and hard-dollar savings. Hard dollars, simply put, represent the value of the application integration solution that is easily defined by the ability of the solution to eliminate costly processes, such as automating manual processes, reducing error rates, or processing customer orders more quickly. In contrast, soft-dollar savings are more difficult to define. These savings include increased productivity over time, retention rate increase due to the ability to make systems work together for the users, and customer satisfaction (based on ease of use) with an organization with integrated systems.

Of course, defining value in a particular system can be based on any criteria and will differ from problem domain to problem domain, and from business to business.