Untangling the Mess: 5 Dataflow and Pipeline Issues Causing Data Spaghetti

At GoodShip, we can help you untangle the mess and map out a clearer path to building time- and cost-saving systems and processes.

Whether it's no-code, low-code, custom or hybrid solutions, we’ll work with you to understand the challenge and recommend the right approach for your operational needs.

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1. Data Silos and Fragmentation

The Problem:
Many organisations operate with disconnected systems (e.g. CRMs, finance software, spreadsheets), causing fragmented data that's difficult to reconcile or report on.

Support:

• System integration through custom APIs or middleware to unify data sources.
  
  
• Centralised data lakes or warehouses to bring everything together.
  
  
• Automated synchronisation to keep data consistent across platforms.
  
  

Benefits:

• Provides a smoother user experience by eliminating the need to jump between systems.
  
  
• Saves time and reduces confusion through a single source of truth.
  
  

2. Manual, Time-Consuming Data Handling

The Problem:
Manual data entry, cleansing, and reporting waste valuable staff time and increase the risk of error.

Support:

• Automated data pipelines to perform Extract, Transform, Load (ETL) processes.
  
  
• Scheduled tasks and triggers to run regular jobs without intervention.
  
  
• Error handling and data validation to reduce manual fixes.
  
  

Benefits:

• Frees up staff time for higher-value tasks.
  
  
• Reduces cognitive load and frustration associated with repetitive admin work.
  
  

3. Delayed or Outdated Insights

The Problem:
Data is often processed in batches or via outdated reports, which limits the ability to make timely decisions.

Support:

• Real-time dashboards using tools like Power BI, Looker or custom front-ends.
  
  
• Event-driven architecture for faster processing when key business events occur.
  
  
• Streaming data pipelines for instant insights.
  
  

Benefits:

• Supports faster decision-making and proactive action.
  
  
• Enhances the user experience for decision-makers, with up-to-date data at their fingertips.
  
  

4. Poor Data Quality and Governance

The Problem:
Inaccurate, duplicate or incomplete data leads to flawed reporting, poor customer experience and compliance risks.

Support:

• Data cleansing and validation routines to maintain quality.
  
  
• Master data management to ensure consistency across systems.
  
  
• Automated compliance tools (e.g. GDPR checks, audit trails).
  
  

Benefits:

• Reduces rework and improves trust in data.
  
  
• Supports better time management by avoiding time spent on fixing errors.
  
  

5. Inflexible or Outdated Systems

The Problem:
Legacy systems are difficult to scale or integrate with newer tools, blocking innovation.

Support:

• Legacy system modernisation via cloud migration or API layers.
  
  
• Custom microservices that extend functionality without full system replacement.
  
  
• Low-code/no-code tools to empower non-technical staff to build automations.
  
  

Benefits:

• Improves the overall experience for users, especially those frustrated by outdated tools.
  
  
• Helps teams work more efficiently by enabling easier, faster interactions with systems.

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Unraveling the spaghetti

If you are interested in learning more please call us now 0151 272 3451 or contact us via hello@goodship.agency to book a review meeting to discuss your scope requirements.