Application Programing Interface (API)

What is an API?

If you've ever wished your software systems could just get along with and understand each other, then this information is for you. In simple terms, an API (Application Programming Interface) allows different software applications to communicate and interact through a predefined set of rules for data exchange. APIs can be used within your organisation to connect internal systems - think CRM to Accounting - or externally - think Inventory Management to your Logistics provider.

Many popular off-the-shelf platforms such as Xero, HubSpot and Salesforce come with open APIs ready for integration and automation. However, not all systems (especially those of the bespoke nature) offer this. When that's the case, you might need a custom API or an alternative integration method to allow for this vital communication.

What can an API offer your business?

APIs can open up a world of opportunities for your businesses - streamlining your internal workflows, improving your productivity through efficient working and ultimately, increasing your bottom line as employees can do more with less. As well as the obvious aspects such as integration and data exchange, automation and improved collaboration, there are also some less obvious benefits that APIs can offer to your business.

Innovation

APIs give you access to external services and data, helping you innovate faster. If you want to offer new features to your customers for example without the pain of new product development - an API lets you plug into existing products already on the market.

Expansion

Through APIs, you can easily expand your digital reach. Partner integrations, marketplace listings or joining larger software ecosystems all become possible (and surprisingly painless).

Cost savings

Building everything from scratch is expensive - there's no doubt about it. APIs can help you slash development costs by tapping into existing functionality rather than having to start from the beginning.

A better customer experience

APIs let you connect to third party services including payment gateways and social media platforms. This in turn, provides your customers with a smoother, more joined up experience. 

Who might use an API?

The answer is - just about everyone! Whether you’re a startup, a scaling business or an established organisation, API integration can make your operations leaner, faster and more efficient. Here are a few examples:

Businesses active on Social Media

If you use off-the-shelf systems such as HubSpot or Buffer, you’re already using APIs - they let you post directly to platforms including Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram whilst allowing you to track engagement without juggling multiple tabs.

Ecommerce businesses

APIs are the secret behind secure payment integrations. Connecting your store to payment gateways such as Stripe or PayPal helps you manage not only transactions but also inventory and shipping whilst adding instant credibility to your checkout process.

Businesses that need authentication

Have you ever used “Sign in with Google” or “Login with Facebook”? That’s an API in action. APIs allow for single sign on (SSO) and social logins, saving your users the headache of creating yet another password hat they'll probably have forgotten by tomorrow.

Businesses with Mobile Apps

Your mobile app probably uses APIs every time it loads your data, stores user profiles or sends push notifications. APIs ultimately keep your app connected to your backend systems.

Businesses with CRM systems

APIs allow you to connect your CRM to marketing tools, customer support systems and analytics platforms to ensure every client interaction is tracked in one central place. Communications can also be automated through APIs saving employees time and ensuring customers receive timely responses.

What sort of projects should use APIs?

APIs act as the backbone of most digital ecosystems. They support apps, integrations and platforms behind the scenes and so are a great choice if your organisation needs to connect it's systems, share data or offer functionality from other software or services. Here are some common API use cases:

Data sharing services

If you need to share data in real time - stock prices, product catalogues or even weather updates - APIs make it happen securely and efficiently.

Mobile & Web App backends

APIs form the backbone of most mobile and web apps. They manage logins, content delivery, data storage and everything else that makes your app work.

System integration projects

Do you need to connect your CRM with your email platform? Or sync your HR system with payroll? APIs make system integration possible and in some cases, painless! Well, almost...

Third party developer access

If you want other developers to build tools or apps that connect with your system, you’ll need a public API. It’s how you invite others into your digital ecosystem - on your terms of course.

Multi platform services

If your business operates across web, mobile, desktop and IoT devices for example, APIs can ensure consistent performance everywhere. Same experience, different platforms - that’s the API way!

How can we help?

Whether you’re after a custom built API tailored perfectly to your systems, or need expert help connecting your existing software using ready made APIs, our development team can help. With many years of hands on experience in API integration, software connectivity and of course custom API development, we’ve helped businesses of all shapes and sizes streamline their operations, reduce manual work and grab hold of new opportunities with open arms through intelligent data exchanges solutions.

FAQs

Q) What does API stand for?

A) Application Programming Interface

Q) Who is responsible for the API once it's developed?

A) Once an API is developed, it is generally handed over to the buyer. The developer should be on hand to support if needs be but do always make sure to confirm this in advance if you don't have the necessary technical resources.

Q) Can an API be changed or updated to accommodate new software?

A) Yes they can, and because you will own the source code you can do this yourself. Alternatively, we will always be on hand to do this for you if you don't have the necessary technical expertise.

Q) What is API testing?

A) API testing is a form of software testing that allows the developer to confirm that an API is working it is meant to be from a functionality, reliability, performance and security perspective. API tests can be undertaken manually, or they can be automated providing the developer has access to the correct types of API testing tool(s). There are a variety of different forms of API tests with each one having a unique role in ensuring the API remains functional and to requirements standard.

Further Reading

Do I need an API?

How do APIs work?

What if an API is not suitable?