
South Africa, Jul 17, 2025
What is an IT systems integrator?
Systems integrators, or SIs, are companies in the ICT value chain which design, construct and implement complex IT solutions for end-user companies. Enterprise IT environments consist of many hardware, software, and licensing components that must work together seamlessly.
A systems integrator’s role is to assemble and integrate these elements into a single, cohesive solution.
Systems integrators often serve as a vital intermediary between solution vendors, distributors and enterprise users.
The role of the SI in the IT value chain
Solution design and implementation
SIs plan, design, coordinate, test, improve and maintain enterprise ICT operations. Since no user’s requirements are ever the same, it takes a specialist skillset to craft customised solutions for their unique business requirements and objectives.
IT project management
Implementing ICT technologies and solutions involves intricate planning, resource allocation, and time constraints. SIs provide project management expertise, focusing on budgets, resources, and risk management strategies.
Streamlined workflows and integrations allow organisations to achieve a faster go-to-market pace.
Vendor management
There are thousands of ICT solution vendors with even more options in terms of hardware, software licensing and support. Managing complex vendor relations can take up a lot of time, which companies can use to focus on their business objectives.
SIs fit into the market at the point of contact between vendors and end-user companies. Relationships built up over years help SI’s access vendor discounts and greater support for end-users.
Solution integration and testing
ICT Solutions must be integrated with various existing business systems and functions. SIs have the competency and skills needed to actively monitor and implement solutions, but also to resolve integration complexities and incidents.
Providing access to a pool of critical skills
ICT skills are unfortunately in short supply, and companies can expect significant expenses to source these skills.
SIs provide a 1-stop-shop where enterprise companies can benefit from rare ICT skills and competencies, without having to invest in sourcing and developing them in-house.
ICT strategy formulation
SIs provide valuable input for organisations’ ICT strategies. Their knowledge of industry trends, governance standards, technological advancements, and the customer’s daily ICT requirements puts them in an ideal position to advise on and help formulate strategies.

What a systems integrator does not do
There is often confusion regarding what the actual role of a systems integrator is. The line is often blurred between distributor and systems integrator. Whereas a distributor focuses on hardware sales and technology solutions; the systems integrator serves as the intermediary between clients and the distributor in cases where a complex IT solution is being developed with hardware components.
The systems integrator would deal with the distributor to source the hardware and software components to build and design the client’s IT system.
This again saves time for clients who don’t have to deal directly with multiple quotations and distributors for equipment. This time-saving aspect of a systems integrator’s function, allows clients to focus on the holistic IT solution they need instead of getting stuck sourcing the individual components.
Although some systems integrators focus on specific OEM (original equipment manufacturer) solutions, it is more common for them to be vendor agnostic when first scoping out a client’s IT system needs. Again, this may cause some confusion when clients mistake the systems integrator for a dedicated OEM outlet.
Benefits of working with a systems integrator
- Centralised project ownership across multi-vendor environments
- Faster return on investment with expert-led implementation
- Reduced risk through proven IT project management practices
- Access to scarce specialist IT skills
- Vendor agnostic advice and procurement support
- Customised IT solutions tailored to unique business objectives and context
Systems Integrator – A summary
It should be understood that the systems integrator serves a specific purpose in the IT value chain. Building and designing a complex IT solution demands extensive skills, resources and time, which are often not readily available in the enterprise environment.
The systems integrator brings convenience and centrality to a value chain which can be complex, confusing and demanding.
Logicalis – An award-winning systems integrator.
Logicalis has decades of experience across many regions and solutions. We serve as a valuable technology solution partner to many companies and sectors across the globe.
Whether you're planning a digital transformation or optimising your current environment, our experts can help you design and integrate the right systems and technologies.