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Glossary term

What is API (Application Programming Interface)?

Definition

An API is a defined interface through which software applications request information or actions from one another. In product information management, APIs can support product-data exchange between PIM, ERP, commerce, asset-management, and other systems. The available actions, security requirements, and update frequency depend on the interface and its configured integration.

An API defines permitted requests and responses; access requires authentication and appropriate permissions. For example, an autonomous product data operation could take an approved product update, submit it through an authorized product API, and check the response before marking delivery complete.

API (Application Programming Interface) in an autonomous operation

  1. Step 1:

    Input

    An approved product update

  2. Step 2:

    API (Application Programming Interface)

    Submit it through an authorized product API

  3. Step 3:

    Outcome

    Check the response before marking delivery complete

An API defines permitted requests and responses; access requires authentication and appropriate permissions.

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