System Integrator Business Model

September 28, 2022
/ in
Industry Trends
/ by
GCSIT Team
A system integrator business model offers a whole line of IT services, from consultations to managed systems services. Here’s what you need to know.

What is a System Integrator Business Model? Here's What You Need to Know

Technology is outpacing our ability to adapt to it; many organizations struggle to stay current with the latest technologies. Like most businesses, your organization will need to upgrade its information technology. You can guarantee project success by working with a software system integrator. Here's what you need to know about the system integrator business model.

What is a system integrator business model? It will help to learn what a system integrator is first.

Simply put, a system integrator is an organization or an individual that creates bespoke digital communication systems for organizations using components from assorted suppliers. A network system integrator helps a business configure less expensive hardware and software to the specific needs of the individual business. This service yields excellent outcomes for companies that cannot afford a top-to-bottom infrastructure overhaul with fully customized parts and original programming.

Using a network systems integrator to unite different subsystems into a functional, coherent infrastructure also helps streamline the business's whole process. The systems integrator manages all parts sourcing, handles the vendors, and consolidates the procurement process. A system integrator business model essentially combines component sourcing and technological implementation.

System Integrator Business Model Process

A network system integrator starts every project by performing a consultation with the client so that the project scope and objectives are clearly defined. The integrator provides an assessment of the client's core business operations and the technologies, hardware, and software necessary to meet their objectives.

The plan developed from the consultations is the basis for the full project. The project might involve a unique architecture build using components sourced from different vendors, which is then integrated into the business's existing system. The integration might also include the integration of cloud computing functionalities.

System integrator partner programs

There are a number of software suppliers that offer partner programs for system integrators. These partners can provide technical assistance and sales support. In addition, they can offer discounts for selling merchandise and delivering services. Some partner programs connect systems integrators with training and deeply discounted demo equipment.

A brief history of systems integrators

It's not uncommon for information technology companies to refer to themselves as system integrators. However, system integration services are only a part of the menu of services most IT service providers offer.

In the late 20th and early 21st century, the outsourcing of IT services, managed services, and cloud services all developed into multifaceted business models. An IT services provider typically includes advisory services, systems integration, professional support, and cloud-based services. Systems integration's business model essentially provides integration services and a series of adjacent solutions.

Systems integrators vs. value-added resellers

Systems integrators and value-added resellers (VARs) are two categories of companies that are closely related. A VAR resells telecommunications, hardware, and software products and frequently performs services to develop comprehensive IT solutions. In that role, a VAR serves as a systems integrator. While system integrators don't typically sell components on a standalone basis to clients the way VARs do, it's not unusual for a system integrator to perform that service.

A key point of distinction is that VARs are more likely to specialize in small and medium-sized businesses and small-scale IT systems. System integrators, on the other hand, are better equipped to handle larger projects involving different locations.

In order to determine if you need a network system integrator, consider the following questions:

  • Do you plan to implement a complicated, radically different IT infrastructure?
  • Are you facing a skills shortfall and challenging learning curve in your company?
  • Are you launching a time-sensitive project that demands specialized skill sets?
  • Do you have a strict deadline?

If you need an automation system integrator, please contact the team at GCSIT to discuss your project goals and parameters. We look forward to hearing from you!

Featured Photo by cottonbro

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