Short answer
An integration platform as a service (iPaaS) is cloud software for building and running integrations between applications without managing servers. Examples range from simple automation tools such as Zapier and Make to enterprise platforms such as MuleSoft, Workato, Boomi, Informatica and Microsoft Azure Integration Services.
iPaaS (Integration Platform as a Service) explained
iPaaS tools provide connectors to common apps, visual flow builders, data transformation, scheduling, error handling and monitoring. Lightweight tools suit simple, low-volume automations. Enterprise platforms add API management, high volume, security controls and governance for many integrations across a firm.
The right choice depends on the number of systems, data volumes, security requirements and who will maintain the integrations.
How Vantage Point helps: we recommend and build on the right integration platform, from native connectors and Zapier to MuleSoft and Azure.
Frequently asked questions
When is Zapier enough?
For a few simple, low-volume automations between cloud apps. As volume, complexity or security needs grow, an enterprise platform is safer.
MuleSoft or Azure Integration Services?
Both are enterprise-grade. MuleSoft fits Salesforce-centric API strategies; Azure Integration Services fits organizations standardized on Microsoft. We compare them in our guide.