Oct 19, 2023

Data exchange is at the crux of most supply chain tasks. For example, inventory management systems report stock quantities. A WMS tracks the influx of online orders compared to available stock. Verification systems rely on preset configurations to match outgoing stock with regulation parameters. In all these tasks, Application Programming Interfaces – or APIs – have proven handy to share data between systems for maximized visibility across the digital landscape. As changes are performed, systems running on an API framework can “communicate” with each other, deploying alerts or even executing preset actions to uphold productivity. Therefore, it’s no surprise that a majority of enterprise IT teams are turning to APIs to connect their modernized systems, yet eight in ten organizations admit to struggling with managing them. Tracking API usage can be complicated since it consolidates multiple different systems into a shared web-based framework. However, successful integration enables:

• Real-time tracking of KPIs
• Greater inventory control
• Dependable data communication between remote teams
• Decreased correctional costs and errors
• Maximized flexibility to adapt to future changes

But first, what are APIs and what do they need?

Before exploring the benefits and challenges of API integration, developers recommend exploring its definition to see if it fits with your business goals. In its most basic form, an API stack carries vital data compartmentalized into an agreed-upon format between two or more different systems. It can resemble a waiter carrying a pre-defined amount of food on a plate from the kitchen to the dining room. Data can be consumed, shared, and sent back as long as it fits the established format of the API.

Manufacturing plants and distribution centers often communicate with several teams and employ countless reports to verify shipments, organize orders, and track stock. An API framework allows disparate applications and software to distribute data and preserve operational visibility. To accomplish this, every framework should incorporate:

• A clearly defined objective that is shared between companies.
• Dependable IT support for your overall system – not just an individual program.
• Extensive testing to ensure seamless accommodation of future applications.

Needless to say, building a viable API framework is a team effort. However, by developing an integration plan alongside a team, businesses are better equipped to overcome potential challenges for a smoother rollout.

Common API Integration Challenges

Intricate and tailored, an intelligent API system can be costly upfront, yet its benefits drive up productivity and profitability by augmenting operational visibility and team communication. Therefore, integrators suggest taking the following actions to target and minimize challenges early on, thus simplifying the overall integration process.

1. Prioritize Team Communication to Create a Compatible System – One of the main challenges associated with integrating an API framework is the complexity of the system. To accommodate multiple systems, API channels involve the use of intricate algorithms and data models, which can be difficult to integrate into existing systems. This complexity leads to issues with data accuracy, system compatibility, and overall system stability.

To overcome this challenge, companies must ensure that they have a clear understanding of their existing systems and the data that they currently hold. This can involve conducting a thorough audit of all existing systems and data, as well as meeting with stakeholders and involved parties such as shippers, picking teams, administrators, loading dock coordinators, and any other departments that will use the API framework.

Related: Is your warehouse ready for an upgrade? Discover the tell-tale signs modernization is needed in your facility.

2. Procure Experienced API Integration Assistance – It’s one thing to find support for one application, and an entirely different matter to deploy support for a host of applications. Integrating an API framework requires individuals with a high level of technical expertise and knowledge in data science, machine learning, and at times even artificial intelligence. This can make it difficult for companies to find the right talent to integrate these technologies into their existing systems.

Fortunately, companies are no longer left alone to design their own solutions. Versatile solution providers working with multiple OEMs tend to have the experience needed with different types of applications and software, empowering you with diversified support. This can involve working alongside a support provider before implementation to analyze KPIs and possible challenges your framework will encounter prior to a mass rollout.

3. Ensure Data Security Protocols are Kept - Another API integration challenge lies in maintaining data privacy and security. Because API systems rely on web-based programs, data breaches become a serious risk businesses face. Recent reports estimate that 40% of a breach’s final costs are attributed to lost business as a brand’s reputation suffers. However, failure to connect vital programs and applications can also delay workflows, shipping schedules, and fulfillment, thus affecting business relationships as well.

To protect your API framework, it is crucial to implement a cybersecurity plan before developing your solution. As data moves between application stacks, consider adding strict access controls, encrypting sensitive data, and regularly conducting security audits to identify potential vulnerabilities.

1. 1. Simplify Employee Training with Automation - Finally, one of the most significant challenges associated with integrating APIs is systematically training teams to adopt a new data-sharing format. API integration draws in multiple systems and applications, which may seem overwhelming at first for your teams. Moreover, because multiple systems would be connected in an API stack, employees may be reluctant to adopt the system if it adds more steps to their daily tasks.

Before connecting disparate applications and systems into an API framework, it is important to evaluate your current data-sharing mechanism and ensure your team is ready for automation. Facilities leaning on paper-based tracking and unsupported operating systems will most likely struggle more to adapt to an API framework since the new system would require mass digitization. During your preliminary evaluation, consider remediating stalled operations with automated systems and Android for Enterprise since these set the groundwork for successful API integration.

RELATED: SEE HOW DECISION-MAKERS ARE LEVERAGING ANDROID TO SIMPLIFY COMPLEX DISTRIBUTION TASKS.

API integration within existing business systems can be a multifaceted process. Companies must consider a range of factors, including system complexity, specialized skills and expertise, data security, and employee adoption. However, when equipped with a clear view of potential challenges and goals, IT teams can develop a flexible API integration that unites systems without burdening the workforce. The first step is evaluating systems to target integration opportunities.

Taking the first step with Heartland

In our mission to empower communities, Heartland strives to simplify complex procedures with clear communication, reliable expertise, and tailored approaches. Because every warehouse is inherently different, set up a preliminary assessment of your data-sharing system to how API integration can fit into your workflows. By carefully considering the challenges discussed and adopting a strategic approach to integration, companies can gain a significant competitive advantage in the marketplace.