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How to Use the API as a "Non-Programmer"?

As a regular user, you might not think about whether software has an open interface. However, this so-called API offers many advantages. You don't necessarily have to be a programmer or developer to benefit from it. 
Learn more about what an API is, its pros and cons, and how you can leverage it as a "non-developer":

What is an API?

An API (application programming interface) is an interface that a software system provides for connecting other applications. It allows clear, abstracted, and structured access to the backend's functions and data. Developers can connect their own or external software for individual workflows.

Providing such an interface includes a detailed documentation of the interface functions with their parameters. Just like designing a website, an API must be conceived and designed. Since the interface is initially implemented and tested by a human (a programmer), ideally, there should also be documentation understandable by humans (or at least programmers).

Advantages

  • Custom reports can be created.
  • Less effort: Data doesn't need to be entered twice. Information from the other system can be accessed.
  • Fewer errors, less typing, and a better overview: Creating and updating data via the API can be automated and synchronized.
  • No need to switch back and forth between different applications.

Disadvantages

  • To connect other software individually, programming knowledge is required. If there is no developer in the company, someone external must be hired.
  • Developing a connection takes time.

With services like Zapier, you can benefit from the API without programming knowledge

Web services like Zapier use the API to connect countless business tools (web apps) together. No programming knowledge is needed for setup. You simply click together a so-called "Zap." 
Zapier also offers its own functions, such as email or SMS notifications for certain events.
Agentursoftware über die REST API und Zapier mit anderen Apps verbinden(English image not yet available)

Conclusion

With Zapier, a significant number of simple workflows can be realized. However, for synchronizing master data across multiple systems, using the API is indispensable.

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