Bidirectional Sync
Data synchronisation where changes in either connected system are reflected in the other, maintaining consistency in both directions.
In-Depth Explanation
Bidirectional synchronisation (two-way sync) ensures changes made in either of two connected systems are reflected in the other. This maintains data consistency across systems while allowing both to be authoritative.
Sync patterns:
- Bidirectional: Both systems writable, changes sync both ways
- Unidirectional: One source of truth, one-way replication
- Master-slave: Primary authoritative, secondary receives updates
Bidirectional challenges:
- Conflict resolution (same record changed in both)
- Sync timing and consistency
- Field mapping complexity
- Performance at scale
- Maintaining referential integrity
Conflict resolution strategies:
- Last write wins (by timestamp)
- Source system priority
- Field-level merge
- Manual resolution queue
- Business rules based
Business Context
Bidirectional sync enables teams to work in their preferred systems while maintaining data consistency, but adds complexity vs one-way sync.
How Clever Ops Uses This
We implement bidirectional sync for Australian businesses needing multiple systems of record, with careful conflict handling to prevent data issues.
Example Use Case
"CRM and project management bidirectional sync: deals created in CRM create projects in PM tool, and project status updates reflect back in CRM."