Data Integration accuracy must be ensured in preventing sync delays, bugs, patches, and system reconciliation errors that are server fixes
On October 9, 2024, GCash users in the Philippines were shocked to find their e-wallet balances seemingly missing. GCash, the country’s most popular e-wallet, experienced a major hiccup that left users panicked and confused. Seeing hard-earned money disappear, even temporarily, is unsettling. But in today’s tech-driven world, glitches happen—even to big players. Sometimes it’s just a part of the technology landscape. But what causes these errors, and how can they be fixed?
Image credits: DICT/DWPM/Radyo 630/Teleradyo/ANC Digital
Remember the CrowdStrike crash on July 19, 2024?
The ill-fated global hiccups triggered a major lawsuit between Delta Airlines and CrowdStrike after a cybersecurity update by CrowdStrike caused a system failure, leading to global transportation chaos. This error, which impacted flight operations, caused Delta to cancel thousands of flights, resulting in a multi-billion-dollar lawsuit and widespread disruption to businesses, airports, and travelers. Delta claimed that CrowdStrike rushed an update without sufficient testing, violating its quality assurance protocols.
Image credits: Kate O'Flaherty/forbes.com
But what causes these technical challenges?
Glitches in fintech apps like GCash’s mishap feature can sometimes happen because of how data integration is handled. Data integration is the process of pulling information from different sources to create one unified system. If this process isn’t done right, it can lead to problems. For example, if the app is getting data from multiple places and it doesn’t sync correctly or if there’s missing or wrong information, glitches can occur. This may cause delays or errors in your app experience.
Image credit: pollstarllp.com
Data integration is the process of connecting different data sources and systems to create a unified view of information. This process includes moving, syncing, and transforming data to ensure it flows seamlessly across an organization. By integrating data, businesses can eliminate silos, improve collaboration, and make more informed decisions. Key functions include data migration, synchronization, and real-time updates, ensuring accurate and consistent data across platforms. With the right integration tools, companies can automate data exchange, boost efficiency, and enhance overall performance. Effective data integration is essential for data-driven success and helps businesses stay competitive in today's fast-paced market.z
In short, when different systems aren’t working well together, or data isn’t processed accurately, it can result in issues. Ensuring that data integration is set up properly helps avoid these glitches and keeps the app running smoothly for users.
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Why E-Wallet Glitches Happen: Common Causes Explained
E-wallet errors, though uncommon, can happen for several reasons. Here are some of the most common causes behind incorrect balance displays:
1. Data Reconciliation Issues: Data Sync Problems
When e-wallets handle transactions, they need to sync data across various databases. Think of it as keeping several lists updated at once. If one list isn’t perfectly in sync, it can throw off the entire system, leading to balance discrepancies.
2. Routine Maintenance Glitches
E-wallets like GCash regularly update their systems to keep everything secure and working smoothly. Sometimes, after these updates, small issues can pop up—like when a computer reboots and some apps don’t open correctly. This can delay transactions, making your balance look incorrect for a while.
3. Delays in Syncing Transaction Data
E-wallets process thousands of transactions every second, and keeping everything up-to-date in real-time can be tricky. If there’s a delay in syncing recent payments, your balance might temporarily show more than it should.
4. High Traffic Loads
During peak times, like payday or large sales events, e-wallet systems experience a huge surge in transactions. If the system gets overloaded, it may miss or delay recording some transactions, causing your balance to appear off.
5. Software Bugs from Updates
Just like any app, e-wallets get regular updates for better performance and security. Sometimes, though, these updates can cause bugs. A new update might accidentally mess with how transactions are processed, leading to minor errors in your balance.
Understanding these causes can help you stay calm if your e-wallet balance is off. While these glitches can be unsettling, they’re usually temporary, and the system is quickly corrected. E-wallet providers are constantly working to improve their technology and reduce these issues.
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Life Goes on with Filipinos after the GCash Glitch
E-wallet balance errors can happen from time to time, often due to technical glitches or high transaction volumes. If you ever notice your balance seems off, don’t panic. These issues are temporary, and service providers are working hard behind the scenes to resolve them. After all, fintech business models are built with pros and cons test methods for challenges countenance, ensuring that your digital transactions remain safe and reliable.
These occasional hiccups are just part of the journey as we embrace digital financial services. The fintech industry is well-equipped to tackle these challenges, with continuous training and product development to keep things running smoothly.
Filipinos have shown time and again that they trust e-wallets, even after dealing with a few issues in the past months. A survey post by Nomura Research Institute (NRI) Singapore, Manila Branch on LinkedIn nine months ago, revealed that while 40.9% of users faced problems like downtime or OTP issues, 55.4% are using e-wallets more often for their convenience, easy cash-ins, and great promos.
Source: NRI LinkedIn post in January 2024
Despite occasional glitches like GCash’s recent hiccup, 95% of users still trust e-wallets. They’re mostly used for sending money to family (87%), paying online (83%), and skipping cash for daily purchases (61%).
The key takeaway is that fintech is here to stay, glitches or not. While occasional issues may arise, they are a small fraction compared to the daily convenience fintech provides.
