Process
What does it mean to integrate a front office where systems can be monitored by a client to operations in the back office that often go completely unnoticed? While it is impossible to integrate every system in a firm today, it is certainly possible to work toward that goal as you build systems into your firm.
Processes are everywhere in the firm
The act of integration must be a conscious choice that is determined every time you work on a new system. From content management to risk management, the choice must be to look at ways to formulate a process that will deliver the firm's services in the most efficient manner possible.