Real-time vs batch syncing
Quick answer
The two ways of moving data between systems: instantly on each event, or grouped at scheduled intervals.
Key takeaways
- Stock and availability (ATP) in the portal
- Orders that must be processed immediately
- Delivery statuses, notifications
The two paradigms
Data can move between systems in real time (each event immediately triggers a transfer) or in batch (data accumulates and is processed in groups, at intervals - e.g. hourly or overnight).
Real-time - when
- Stock and availability (ATP) in the portal
- Orders that must be processed immediately
- Delivery statuses, notifications
Batch - when
- Bulk syncs (catalogues, prices, master data)
- Reports and financial reconciliations
- High volumes where delay is acceptable
The trade-off
Real-time gives freshness but consumes more resources and is more error-sensitive. Batch is efficient and robust but introduces latency. Mature systems combine both, by data type.
How CRMconnect helps
CRMconnect supports real-time flows (webhooks, API) for time-sensitive data and scheduled batch flows for high volumes, choosing the right mode per data type - freshness where it counts, efficiency where it's enough.
Real-world example
A retailer synced everything overnight in batch, so portal stock was always a day old, generating unfulfillable orders. With CRMconnect, stock moves to real-time while large catalogues stay on batch - correct and efficient.
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Frequently asked
Which is better, real-time or batch?+
It depends on the data type. Real-time for time-sensitive data (stock, orders, statuses); batch for high volumes where slight delay is acceptable (catalogues, reports). Best is combined.
Isn't real-time always better?+
Not necessarily. Real-time consumes more resources and is more complex to operate. For bulk syncs or reconciliations, batch is more efficient and robust.
Where CRMconnect fits
Related terms
REST API
The standard HTTP integration interface for data exchange between systems.
TechnologyWebhook
HTTP push notification sent automatically on event - the opposite of "polling".
TechnologyiPaaS (Integration Platform as a Service)
A cloud platform that connects applications and data via connectors, flows and transformations managed centrally.
TechnologyIntegration middleware
The intermediate software layer that connects systems and translates data between them, decoupling them from each other.