What is the difference between data integration and data preparation?

What is the difference between data integration and data preparation?

Data integration involves combining data from different sources into a unified view, while data preparation focuses on cleaning and transforming data for analysis.

Can you give me examples of each process?

Sure! Data integration might involve merging customer data from a CRM and an ERP system. Data preparation could include removing duplicates and normalizing data formats.

Why is data preparation important in analytics?

Data preparation is crucial because it ensures the data is accurate, consistent, and ready for analysis, leading to better insights.

What tools are commonly used for data integration?

Common tools for data integration include Apache NiFi, Talend, and Microsoft Azure Data Factory.

How do I choose between data integration and data preparation for my project?

It depends on your project's needs. If you need to combine data from various sources, focus on integration. If you need to clean and format data for analysis, prioritize preparation.