API Integration for Connected Websites and Applications

What is an API?

An API is a defined way for software systems to exchange information or request actions. In a website project, an API can allow your site to work with another service rather than keeping every piece of information isolated.

Examples of integration tasks

Depending on the service, an integration might retrieve data, send form information, synchronise records, display external information or trigger a workflow. The available functionality depends on the API documentation, authentication method, data limits and service terms.

Design the integration around the user journey

The API itself is only one part of the project. The website needs to handle loading states, errors, unavailable responses and useful messages so the visitor still understands what is happening.

API planning checklist

• Which systems need to communicate?
• What information needs to be sent or received?
• Does the service provide an API?
• What authentication is required?
• How often does information need to update?
• What happens if the external service is unavailable?
• Where should integration errors be recorded?
• What information should visitors or administrators see?

Related ShopperWorld services

Website projects often combine several of these areas. Explore the service that matches the next part of your project.