When companies work with a lot of data, it is important that that information is available in a clear and reliable way. That's where data integration plays an important role. But what exactly does it entail? And why is it so important for reporting under the CSRD, for example? In this blog, we explain.
What is data integration?
Data integration is the process of merging information from different sources into one clear system. It ensures that companies have access to consistent, reliable data, which is important for analysis, optimization and reporting. This comes in handy with increasing sustainability obligations, including the CSRD. Data integration helps companies create reports efficiently and accurately, without having to do anything manually.
The benefits of data integration
Data integration offers several benefits. We list them for you:
- Efficiency: Automatic data collection and integration save your organization time and money. This eliminates the need for manual data entry, speeding up processes and reducing the likelihood of errors.
- Better decision-making: With access to up-to-date data, companies can make strategic decisions based on current, accurate information. This helps to react quickly to changes in the market and adjust production processes immediately.
- Increased transparency: Data integration also makes it easy for companies to see exactly where data comes from and how it is processed. This is important for reporting requirements such as the CSRD because it ensures clear and consistent information about sustainability performance. For example, companies can show exactly how much waste has been recycled and where these figures come from, ensuring reliability and trust among stakeholders and regulators.
Data integration in practice
Data integration can be applied in a variety of ways to optimize business processes. Whether in logistics, e-commerce or manufacturing. Below we share some practical examples that show how data integration works.
EDI (Electronic Data Interchange).
In logistics, EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) is used to make inventory management as efficient as possible. Consider a supplier who automatically receives inventory data from a customer. Once inventory drops below a certain limit, the system automatically sends an order to the supplier. This process occurs without manual input, minimizing errors and speeding up deliveries.
Real-time shipping information (API)
In addition, data integration in e-commerce is applied through Real-time Shipping Information, or API integration. This allows e-commerce companies to keep customers informed about their orders in real-time. With every update about the package (e.g., shipped, in transit or delivered), the status is automatically updated and sent to the customer.
Production management in the manufacturing industry
Data integration allows operators in the manufacturing industry to gain real-time insight into production efficiency. Is a machine having problems? Then the system can automatically send an alert to schedule maintenance before downtime occurs. This improves productivity and lowers costs because problems are often solved before the process shuts down.
The role of data integration in sustainability goals and CSRD
With the new CSRD directive, companies must prepare detailed sustainability reports. Data integration plays an important role here by making data from different systems available quickly and consistently. This allows companies to comply with legal requirements without unnecessarily wasting time and costs due to manual data processing.
In addition, data integration helps ensure data quality, allowing companies to be confident that the information they share with stakeholders and regulators is accurate and up-to-date. This reduces the risk of errors and ensures an efficient reporting process.
In addition, data integration helps companies conduct thorough analyses of their sustainability efforts, contributing to strategic decisions such as carbon reduction, waste reduction and recycling.
Milgro and data integration
Milgro has developed an innovative data integration solution that helps companies seamlessly integrate their waste data into their systems. This allows companies, for example, to see exactly how much waste they produce, what portion of it is recycled, and where there are opportunities for improvement. This makes it easier to manage waste streams and comply with sustainability reports, including the CSRD.
The Milgro dashboard provides real-time visibility into your company's waste, waste and resource goals and performance indicators. In addition, customers can take advantage of customized reports and integrations to ensure the data fits their exact needs.
Want to know more?
Are you looking for an efficient way to map your waste streams and report on the CSRD? Download the product sheet, where we tell you more about Milgro's data integration. You can also always contact our experts for a free (online) introduction.
