Since the COVID-19 pandemic plunged everyone into a remote lifestyle, businesses have been forced to integrate new apps and technology into their workplace. Where apps have become a norm in the workplace, APIs and API integration are quickly becoming the new standard for industries such as e-commerce, finance, healthcare, data management, and many, many others.

What is an API?

API stands for Application Programming Interface, meaning that multiple apps can be exchanging data with each other, facilitated by an interface – the API.

APIs are used everywhere now – examples of them include Paypal, Google Maps, and Uber. The API integration setup works by combining information from various apps to bring you the information you’re looking for; to schedule a Zoom call, you may have Zoom ‘talk’ to your Google calendar to check your availability.

Many businesses use multiple APIs, in which case using an API integration platform is critical to synchronizing information from various APIs at once.

Why is API important?

It’s no secret that with technology where it is today, users and consumers expect the utmost level of speed and convenience – and it’s on businesses to keep up. With everything happening digitally and at a lightning pace, cutting any potential error and areas of drag in the workflow can significantly decrease the losses a business might face.

In fact, a study by Cleo showed that poor app integration cost 66% of businesses surveyed more than $500,000. While this may sound daunting, it also means that there are meaningful gains a business can make by incorporating an API.

Put simply, API integration setup can save you time, money, and reduce losses made by human error. Plus, it can greatly enhance the productivity, efficiency, and scalability of your business. (If you are looking for more ways to streamline your business, check out our post on the best invoicing platforms.)

What is meant by scalability in this case? If you’ve been using legacy software in your business and are having a difficult time implementing new apps and old tech, having a custom-built API integration platform can resolve this issue and make it easier to add new apps to the API later on. In the long run, you’ll be saving yourself a lot of headaches.

Who benefits the most from API?

While a solid API integration setup is great for practically any business, it can be especially useful if:

• Your business involves e-commerce or other types of sales
• You deal in data management
• You have an online business that uses a third-party app
• You use a lot of cloud apps
• You’re noticing delays or communication issues that are costing you money
• You still use old legacy apps that need integrating (this can be done with an API integration platform that can create custom APIs)
• You want to remain competitive and optimize your revenue

How do I make an API integration setup?

The first step is to see whether the apps and APIs that you want to connect can actually be connected. You’ll also need to see how these apps exchange data, how much data will need to be communicated across the API, and whether you’ll need authentication to access data from a specific API. After that, your developer can figure out a workable data flow and begin testing.

If you’re running multiple APIs, you may want an API Integration platform – some of the top-reviewed platforms are Boomi, Celigo, and Cleo, but it is highly recommended that you have a skilled developer working directly with your business to make sure your APIs are communicating correctly.

Need more API IT Support?

See our other articles on integration and optimizing your business’ workflow, or send us a message to talk to one of our professionals! 

• Integrate and Connect Applications with a Software Developer – Learn more about why the best businesses are integrating their applications with a professional software developer. 
• Business Operations Consultant Who Knows IT – Find out how a business operations consultant can save you time, money, and headaches. 

Why You Need API Integration for Your Business Summary

To stay competitive in the fast-moving world of business, it’s not only important but necessary to optimize efficiency while cutting back on delays and errors. API integration setup is a powerful solution to these issues and has become an essential tool in mainstream businesses today.

If you’re interested in setting up API integration, let us know so we can give you the personalized attention your business deserves!