What Is Systems Integration? A Complete Guide for Parcel, Distribution, and e-Commerce Operations
When you walk into a high-volume distribution center, you’ll see conveyors moving parcels, sorters directing packages, scanners capturing barcodes, and software orchestrating the flow. But none of this happens by accident. Behind the scenes, systems integration brings these components together into one seamless operation.
What Is Systems Integration?
Systems integration in automation is the process of designing, connecting, and optimizing multiple pieces of equipment to function as a cohesive system. This process is typically performed by experts at systems integration companies who specialize in identifying the right combination of solutions to solve customers’ complex problems.
In today’s world, even distribution and e-commerce giants, such as Amazon, rely on systems integrators to help design and implement automated systems that maximize productivity, efficiency, and uptime, while mindful of factors like scalability and return on investment.
The Systems Integration Process
The first step in the systems integration process is identifying a need. Whether it’s a brownfield (existing) application seeking to increase throughput or a greenfield (new) application aiming to maximize space utilization, the best systems integrators excel at leveraging their expertise to solve their customers’ problems in unique and innovative ways.
The systems integration process consists of a few key steps:
1. Discovery: Working with the customer to identify their aspirations, afflictions, requirements, and all other relevant information, such as their facility layout.
2. Design: Developing models and proposals that combine the right solutions to solve the customer’s problems and meet their requirements.
3. Acceptance: After reviewing and fine-tuning, the customer signs off on the proposal.
4. Procurement: All necessary equipment and components are procured, built, and shipped to the customer site.
5. Implementation: The equipment is installed, tested, validated, and signed off on by the customer.
6. Final Sign Off: The customer validates that the solution is working and meets their needs.
7. Go-Live: For greenfield applications, the official start of operations begins.
8. Review: The systems integrator checks in with the customer periodically to ensure everything is running smoothly.
What Equipment is Used in Automated Systems Integration?
While technology is rapidly evolving and custom-engineered solutions are often necessary to meet customer needs, some of the most popular equipment used in system integration today includes:
Conveyors
Sortation systems
Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs)
Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS)
Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs)
Industrial Robotics
Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
Control Systems
Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehouse Execution Systems (WES), Warehouse Control Systems (WCS)
Pick-to-Light systems
Palletizers
Internet of Things (IOT)
Automated Forklifts
Why Systems Integration Matters
Imagine trying to build a modern city without the expert guidance of architects or urban planners. You would have inefficient layouts, designs that simply don’t work, and stunted growth due to lack of scalability.
The same is true for designing end-to-end automated systems. Foresight, expertise, and the right blend of solutions are key to the operational success of any site. True systems integrators are real partners that help ensure your investment is sound and right for your business.
Without proper integration:
Equipment bottlenecks slow throughput.
Manual interventions increase errors.
Systems fail to scale with growth.
Integrated systems deliver:
Optimized material flow from receiving to shipping.
Reduced labor dependency through automation.
Future-ready flexibility for new technologies.
What Do Systems Integrators Do?
Systems integrators provide a variety of helpful and strategic tasks, including:
Assessment & Design
Analyze your operation and pain points.
Model throughput and space requirements.
Create a custom system layout.
Equipment Selection
Choose the right mix of conveyors, sorters, scanners, and robotics.
Balance performance, cost, and scalability.
Installation & Commissioning
Manage the entire build, from layout to wiring.
Test and validate performance before go-live.
Lifecycle Support
Provide maintenance, upgrades, and optimization.
Ensure your system evolves with your business.
Why Choose the Right Systems Integrator
Choosing the wrong systems integrator is like selecting the wrong quarterback to lead your football team. Without proper guidance and leadership, it will be tough to meet your goals and expectations. With the right integrator on your side, it unlocks the true potential of your operation and exceeds the expectations of your customers and stakeholders.
The best integrators act as strategic partners and not just installers. They help you:
Solve problems you didn’t know you had.
Design solutions that fit your unique workflows.
Future-proof your operation for growth.
Our Perspective
At Aegis Sortation, we believe integration is about partnership. As a leading systems integrator, we don’t just install equipment. We engineer solutions that transform operations. From discovery to lifecycle support, our approach ensures your system is efficient, scalable, and ready for tomorrow.
If you’re interested in learning more about systems integration and our approach to helping you achieve your goals, reach out for a consultation today.
