Among the services we offer here at Modest is integration with Gmail and Google Calendar. We can modify existing systems or build brand new business software with integration included. Best of all, integration isn’t limited to Google Workspace apps.
Business software can be fully integrated with thousands of third-party apps. The benefits of doing so include:
- Centralization of all applicable data.
- More streamlined data transfer.
- More efficient workflow.
- Increased automation capabilities.
Depending on use case, integrating business software with third-party apps can literally revolutionize the way companies use their software. Third-party integration could very well be the most useful – and simultaneously, the most underutilized – capability of modern software development.
API Integration
We have several options for deploying third-party integration as we build custom business software. The most common method is arguably API integration. APIs, also known as application programming interfaces, are small apps written expressly for the purpose of facilitating integration. That is why they exist.
API-based integration allows different software systems to seamlessly communicate and exchange information. The advantages of such an arrangement are clear:
- Communication between apps is standardized.
- Data exchange occurs in real time.
- Workflows and individual tasks can be automated.
- Access to third-party data and services can be granted on an as-needed basis.
Third-party integration by way of APIs is more common than most people know. It is so prolific that the chances of you using an integrated app on any given day are pretty high.
Other Ways to Integrate
While API integration is a fairly common way to handle things, it is not the only option. Another popular option is something known as the integration platform. An integration platform is an online platform designed to be an intermediary between applications and ecosystems. The key components of a solid platform include:
- API management.
- Pre-built connectors.
- Data transformation tools.
- Workflow automation.
- Built-in monitoring and analytics.
Within the integration platform sphere there are multiple options. Developers can look at enterprise iPaaS (integration platform-as-a-service), embedded iPaaS, and unified API solutions. Each option has its strengths and weaknesses.
Above and beyond integration platforms are:
- Data Extraction Solutions – When API integration is not technically possible (usually older software without API capabilities) integration can be achieved through data extraction. Data extraction is clunky and not very efficient, but it gets the job done.
- Plugins – Some software vendors prefer to offer integration through plugins, addons, and extensions. These additional pieces of software tend to offer limited integration with just one other software package.
A general rule in modern software development is to look at API integration first. We move on to integration platforms if they are more appropriate, but we stay away from data extraction and plugins unless absolutely necessary.
Security Is a Top Concern
Regardless of how third-party integration is achieved, security is always a top concern. There is no point to building custom business software that doesn’t utilize the latest and greatest security strategies for protecting data and keeping hackers out.
The challenge in this regard is distrusting API developers. Whenever you’re mixing software developed by separate entities there is always a risk of unknown vulnerabilities. But with the right policies and procedures in place, those risks are minimized.
What does your current business software look like? Is it integrated with third-party apps your organization uses frequently? Third-party integration is a normal part of the development process here at Modest. We invite you to learn more about it and how it can streamline your workflow, improve productivity, and unlock the full potential of your business software. If you require it, we can build something new from the ground up.c