In today’s episode of IT in Plain English, Tammy Ven Dange answers, “What is an API and why is it important for data integrations?”
An API stands for Application Programming Interface. It’s essentially a bridge between two software applications or databases that allow them to talk to each other. Each side of the bridge has different rules about what information can be shared and how it’s shared.
As an example, you might have an API between your payroll and finance system that allows your fortnightly payroll amounts to be shared automatically. Or your CRM might have an API with providers like Survey Monkey or Campaign Monitor so that you can send out emails to the people in your database.
Most of the modern, cloud-based applications have “easy to connect” APIs built into their software.
Where I see the most problems is with legacy systems that still reside on servers in your buildings. These older systems usually require significant work to build and maintain bridges with others. As a result, many organisations don’t do it. And their staff are usually burdened with significant manual processes as a result with limited cross-system information to make decisions.
If this sounds like your organisation, it’s probably time to consider some upgrades.
So, there you have it in plain English.
If you have an IT question you want answered, feel free to connect with me here on my website or on LinkedIn and send me a message. I just might answer it on this show.
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Tammy Ven Dange is a former charity CEO, Not for Profit Board Member and IT Executive. Today she helps NFPs with strategic IT and data decisions.
