Merge highlights the drawbacks of using 180 integrations, which are traditionally one-way syncs with third-party APIs, but have been rebranded by some vendors in ways that introduce performance issues and security risks. These integrations involve manual processes where contractors access a client's platform to handle data, leading to concerns over security, privacy, and customer trust. They often result in delayed API responses and limited data access, failing to meet client expectations. In contrast, Merge offers API-based integrations that ensure performance, security, and ease of use, without requiring clients to share login credentials with unknown third parties. Merge's platform facilitates real-time data syncing and provides tools for integration observability, allowing quick troubleshooting and maintenance, thus ensuring reliability and client satisfaction over time.