Before 2019, progressive companies were already initiating digital transformation strategies. However, the global pandemic intensely accelerated the need for all organizations to find better ways to connect and communicate. One of the most critical tools that makes this possible is the API (Application Program Interface).
Understanding the value of APIs
An API is a set of routines, protocols, and tools for building software applications. By specifying how software components should interact, an API allows disparate computer programs to talk to each other. In practical, real-world terms, “APIs enable mobile experiences, connect companies on the web, and enable platform business models … and many established enterprises correctly view APIs as a key to unlocking their digital transformations.” (Harvard Business Review)
Implementing APIs offers a number of powerful benefits, including:
- Speed of innovation – by removing barriers to change and engaging employees more effectively
- Competitive differentiation – by helping you respond quickly to your market’s needs
- Rapid scalability – by using automation to fuel exponential growth
- Removing data silos – by connecting diverse systems
- Improving the customer experience – by enabling you to do more, faster
A practical example from Connectbase
At Connectbase, our vision is to be the industry cloud for connectivity, enabling branded marketplaces to transform how connectivity is bought and sold globally, partnering with providers to create growth, value and transformative experiences buying and selling connectivity. We’ve developed and integrated dozens of APIs into our platform.
Consider our Building APIs. These APIs enable connectivity providers to create, retrieve, update, or remove buildings or building attributes. In other words, these tools connect our platform to your proprietary system so you can efficiently manage your property locations. And it all happens easily in one place, significantly cutting down the time required while reducing the manpower you need. Your building lists are fully automated so you can load a single property or upload a list of several properties.
Among the attributes you can manage for each location are network products and services, speeds, tenancy, pricing, margins, installation intervals, and special construction needs. Your partners can have full visibility to all the information they need to make buying and selling decisions – all in one place and in real-time.
Want more information about APIs and how they can re-tool your business? Don’t miss the upcoming webinar “API Automation: Transforming Connectivity Transactions & Bottom-Line Profitability” featuring Connectbase CEO & Founder Ben Edmond and INCOMPAS CEO Chip Pickering. The live event will take place Thursday, August 17.
Register here.
