PROCUREMENT 101

Are Your S2P Integrations
Setting You Up for Success?

Start solving for common integration challenges during implementation.

Introduction

Embarking on a source-to-pay (S2P) implementation promises transformative benefits – streamlined processes, enhanced visibility, and improved compliance. However, achieving these outcomes often depends on overcoming critical integration challenges early in the journey, ensuring your solution is set up for long-term success.

Once deployed, integrations serve as the backbone of your S2P solutions, connecting it to the broader ecosystem of enterprise tools. When integrations are poorly designed, neglected, or outdated, they can erode user adoption and derail the success of your solution. Below we outline some of the most common integration challenges we see during implementation – and how we help clients overcome them.

Challenge #1: Outdated ERP Systems

Many organizations rely on ERP systems that predate modern integration standards. While functional for core operations, these systems can require significant customization and effort when connecting to newer S2P platforms.
How Optis Can Help
At Optis, we start by evaluating the compatibility of your legacy ERP with your S2P solution. Our experts identify the critical data flows, mapping the gaps where the systems don't align. Our team prioritizes scalability, ensuring your integration approach can adapt to future upgrades or expansions. With a combination of tailored strategies and cutting-edge tools, we help clients modernize without disrupting their current operations.

Challenge #2: Homegrown Legacy Systems

Companies that built internal systems decades ago often struggle to integrate with today's platforms. These systems lack standard protocols and modern APIs, requiring custom code and niche expertise. While some developers still work with these technologies, the complexity and cost of integration are significant hurdles.
How Optis Can Help
For organizations with homegrown systems, Optis proivdes a dual approach: preserving what works and modernizing where needed. We conduct a detailed audit of your system to determine how to establish secure and efficient connections with the new S2P solution. Throughout the project, Optis offers ongoing support, leveraging our expertise to simplify integrations and address them using a business process-driven approach. We design proper error-handling mechanisms to enhance the user experience post-implementation. Beyond the technical execution, we ensure robust documentation and training, empowering your IT team to confidently manage and maintain the solution.

Challenge #3: Limited IT Resources

Smaller organizations often lack the IT bandwidth to design, build, and maintain integrations effectively. Without proper expertise, companies may experience frequent system outages, data misalignment, and frusterated users.
How Optis Can Help
Optis acts as an extension of your IT team, providing the expertise and resources to design, implement, and maintain integrations. We work with your team to enable faster deployment and easier management of your solution post-implementation, too. During implementation we set up proactive monitoring systems to catch and resolve issues before they impact users. With Optis' help, your team can focus on strategic initiatives while we ensure your integrations operate seamlessly.

Challenge #4: Ongoing maintenance post-implementation

Even after implementation, integrations demand ongoing attention. Systems evolve – whether it's a software upgrade, new regulatory requirements, or a shift in organizational priorities. Without consistent maintenance, integrations can quickly deteriorate, leading to cascading issues across the S2P workflow.
How Optis Can Help
At Optis, we recognize that integrations are not a one-and-done project. Our Perform services ensure stability and continuous improvement of your S2P solutions, including regular performance reviews that ensure your integrations remain aligned with your business needs. We proactively address potential issues, such as software updates that may disrupt data flows, and provide 24/7 support to minimize downtime. For clients looking to stay ahead of industry trends, we offer advisory services on emerging technologies and standards that can enhance integration performance.

Getting Ahead of Integrations Matters

When integrations are poorly executed, users lose confidence in the solution. They face errors, duplicate tasks, or develop a reliance on manual processes. Addressing these issues isn't just about technology; it's about ensuring that your users trust and adopt the solution. At Optis, we understand the critical role that integrations play in your S2P transformation. Whether your company operates on a decades-old legacy system or struggles with limited IT resources, our team has deep expertise in tackling these challenges.

Curious how partnering with our team could help? Contact us today to learn more about Optis' tailored integration strategies.
Author

Carla Eboni, Partner

Connect with Carla on LinkedIn

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