How is database integration achieved in enterprise systems?

Database integration in enterprise systems is achieved through the use of middleware, ETL processes, and data warehousing.

In more detail, database integration is a complex process that involves combining data residing in different sources and providing users with a unified view of these data. This process becomes significant in a variety of situations, which include both commercial (when two similar companies need to merge their databases) and scientific (combining research results from different bioinformatics repositories, for instance) domains.

One of the primary methods of achieving database integration is through the use of middleware. Middleware is software that lies between an operating system and the applications running on it. It enables communication and data management for distributed applications. In the context of database integration, middleware can be used to translate data from one format to another, or to coordinate and manage transactions across multiple databases.

Another common method is the use of Extract, Transform, Load (ETL) processes. ETL is a type of data integration that refers to the process of extracting data from different source systems, transforming it to fit business needs, then loading it into a database or data warehouse. ETL can be used to integrate data from multiple databases, making it easier for businesses to analyse and report on their data.

Data warehousing is also a popular method for integrating databases. A data warehouse is a large store of data collected from a wide range of sources within a company and used to guide management decisions. It separates analysis workload from transaction workload and allows an organisation to consolidate data from several sources. This not only aids in delivering integrity and consistency in data but also helps in reducing the amount of time spent on processing data.

In addition to these methods, there are also various tools and software available that can help with database integration. These tools can automate many of the tasks involved in database integration, making the process more efficient and less prone to error. However, the choice of tool will depend on the specific requirements of the enterprise system and the nature of the databases being integrated.