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:
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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.
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.