Looking for a valuable addition to your enterprise to enhance core business functions? Organizations across the globe are embracing Digital Transformation as an automation enabler that allows them to focus on better business opportunities and successful integration of new functionalities with legacy systems via API Integration is the key to achieving successful Digital Transformation.
According to Forrester Analyst Randy Heffner, “APIs are critical for digital transformation because they are central to software as the backbone of modern business. Many application development and delivery (AD&D) pros mistakenly think of APIs only as a technical strategy for application integration and mobile apps. But APIs enable new business strategies, rapid business change, broad ecosystem connectivity, and world-class customer engagement.”
It is a given that determining the necessity of an API strategy is easier said than done. In lieu of recent developments where endless cloud apps, on-the-go connectivity and departmental best-of-breed stacks make it imperative to implement an API integration strategy. To help you figure this jigsaw puzzle, we have created a step-by-step guide that allows you to hyperautomate your processes to achieve your business goals!
Step 1: Determine goals and benchmarks
Ensure you are devoting substantial time to set goals and benchmarks. APIs are often seen as technology enablers rather than a core business strategy. Manfred Bortenschlage from GSMA recommends three questions that should be sufficiently answered at step 1 - where are we now, where do we want to be, and how do we get there? It is essential to understand that the goal is to have a clear idea of what to achieve with API integration and quantify the success parameters. Once you have your KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) in place, you can manage the rollout to stay on track.
Step 2: Develop an apprehension of IT environments
After you set goals for AP integration, determine the resources at your disposal. You can start by checking the active software licenses and the tools used by various teams and how frequently you will need them. Have you established a connection between applications and systems, and are APIs in use in any instance?
A thorough inventory check at the initial stage will come in handy. This audit lays the foundation of what resources you have and how to optimize them.
Step 3: Decide specific needs and how to cater to them.
Once a thorough inventory has been established, figure out specific needs for API connectors. With this step, you can highlight the particular tasks and tactics to convert an overarching strategy into reality. Essentially, this step helps you to refer API connectivity and usage from database to end-user easily. You can also utilize this time to create a schedule of how new APIs will be created and deployed. Rendering on the scope of API use cases, your organization can find it beneficial to adopt an API creation platform to create their APIs.
Step 4: Disclose the importance and advantages of API integration.
A few concerns may be raised within the organization about the implementation of API integration. As you start with the implementation, take time to explain the benefits of API integration in all aspects, especially IT and address these concerns. Getting buy-in from everyone in the team helps to ensure smoother integration rollouts with fewer glitches.
Step 5: Trial run of the new strategy
A trial run enables you to see if your strategy needs any additional tweaks. 100% efficiency is never expected with any rollout. You can mitigate all initial hiccups before they turn into organization-wide headaches. Consider it as a Proof of concept (POC) where your initial findings will go a long way to make your bigger initiative a success. While running the POC, ensure to communicate with all the stakeholders you determined in Step 4. Eventually, align your expectations with results, as it may create many headwinds if you don’t have a precise aim with the trial run.
Establish ground standards for API governance, security, and maintenance once the trial is completed. Even if the launch goes off without a glitch, a successful API strategy is not built once and forgotten. Not only will APIs need to be watched and monitored to guarantee correct usage, but the connections may also require frequent maintenance to remain highly functioning over time. Many maintenance and supervision activities may be handled and automated with the aid of an API integration platform.
About Neebal:
Neebal, a technology solutions provider, has delivered top of the line solutions across Agro, Pharma, and BFSI verticals. Neebal aims to provide top tier services for API Integration, RPA, and advanced mobility with prime focus on Hyperautomation. Founded in 2010, Neebal is proud recipient of the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 Award (APAC) and the Deloitte Fast 50 Award (India) for four consecutive years (2017-20).