Connectivity is not the same as correct exchange
Two applications can exchange messages successfully while recording information that is wrong for the business. Similar field names do not guarantee shared meaning. A “customer status” might describe a contract in one system and a sales stage in another.
Identify the authoritative source, who can change it and when a change needs to reach other systems. This links integration to data architecture.
Define the exchange contract
Document message shape, field types, required values, status definitions, validation and record identifiers. Clarify mappings and contract versions. Missing optional information should have an agreed meaning.
The process owner should be able to confirm the business meaning of the exchange. This shared view underpins our integrated-system offering.
Plan operational failure behavior
Review network interruptions, incomplete messages and unavailable services. Decide how failures are recorded, who reviews them and what resending a request does. Duplicate records should not appear simply because a retry occurred.
Start with a limited flow with clear ownership and reviewable outputs. Share the systems, information and responsible teams through the consultation form to frame the initial discussion.
