Data integration is the process of combining data from different sources to provide a unified view. This can involve merging information from databases, applications, and other data repositories, allowing organizations to analyze and utilize their data more effectively. By integrating data, businesses can improve decision-making and gain insights that would be difficult to achieve with isolated data sets.
The integration process often involves tools and techniques that help clean, transform, and load data into a central system. Common methods include using ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) processes and data warehouses. Effective data integration supports better collaboration and enhances overall data quality across an organization.