What benefit does systems integration provide to departments within an organization?

The benefit of systems integration that enables better communication between systems is pivotal for enhancing the workflow and efficiency of various departments within an organization. When systems are integrated, data can flow seamlessly between them, which eliminates silos and allows for enhanced collaboration. This interconnectivity ensures that information is disseminated quickly and accurately across departments, resulting in improved decision-making and more cohesive strategies.

In a well-integrated system, departments can easily share resources and data without the barriers that often accompany disjointed systems. This not only leads to increased productivity but also fosters a collaborative culture, as different teams can work together more effectively with access to shared information.

The other options do not align with the primary aim of systems integration. For instance, increasing inter-departmental competition can lead to a fragmented work environment that counters the very purpose of integration. Limiting access to data undermines the benefits of having an integrated system, which is meant to promote transparency and accessibility. Weakening relationships between units contradicts the goal of fostering cooperation and teamwork that integrated systems aim to achieve. Thus, the clear advantage of systems integration lies in its capacity to enhance communication between systems, supporting an efficient and collaborative organizational structure.