As we begin to look back to 2020, it’s clear it has been a challenging and utterly disruptive year for many businesses. However, it has also been a year of transformation, as companies are being forced to evolve and update age-old technologies and processes. At the heart of this period of change have been API management platforms, helping to guide companies through the transition.
The transition to a more flexible, digitized future is essential for businesses as consumers have indicated they will continue the online purchasing habits picked up during the pandemic. And it’s not just B2C companies either.
APIs have long played an indispensable role in all forms of business, with 50% of all B2B collaborations being conducted through APIs. Therefore, it’s not surprising to see companies with advanced API management capabilities see 47% better results in terms of performance.
The key is to understand what API management platforms are and what they do for your business operations. At DiCentral, we have supported thousands of clients over the last 20 years and seen the benefits of companies investing in the latest technology.
What is an API Management Platform?
In short, it is a platform that enables the user to create, retain control, and secure the various APIs within the company. It also allows the different processes and data to integrate smoothly, maximizing the efficiency of operations. By centralizing the information coming from APIs, managers will have oversight on performance and be able to identify any issues quickly and efficiently.
Key Elements of API Management
In order to utilize the full power of API management platforms, it’s essential to understand the key elements of managing API systems. At Universal Adapter, we’ve identified four:
- API Gateway: The first element acts as a vital link between the client/user and the relevant parts of the system. Much like a proxy, the gateway ensures commands are handled with speed and accuracy but with added security and tracking. It is the gateway that connects the frontend with the backend.
- Developer Portal: A platform within a platform - this time for developers and IT technicians to share API documentation and resolve issues. It also offers space for testing API applications and carrying out further development.
- Analytics: An advantage of advanced API management platforms is the ability to track performance against key metrics. The improved data management, together with tracking user journeys, allows companies to see how their APIs are being used. The findings and real-time data can then be used to make alterations to the user interface and further increase efficiency.
- API Oversight: The previous three elements lead managers to retain greater control of the API management process overall. The ability to retain complete oversight over multiple API applications from a single integrated platform enables companies to improve and refine their processes.
A high-quality API management platform from a reputable vendor, such as DiCentral, will allow your business to have a firm grasp of each of these elements.
Case Study: Guiding a 100 Year-Old Company Into the Future
A key aspect of API management platforms is the ability to “future proof” businesses, through increased digitization and integration of multiple systems. The value of embracing technology can be seen in the fact that 56% of customers actively look out for more innovative companies to do business with.
However, for many SMEs, undergoing a digital transformation can be a daunting prospect. Revamping decades old systems and processes can prove to be a headache for companies with limited resources. However, by working with a reputable and reliable technical partner such as DiCentral, one automotive supply company was able to seamlessly transform its business and set it up for the future.
The Company:
A 100-year old bespoke supplier of automotive parts, based in the United States.
The Challenge:
It needed to update its systems but the company was already heavily invested in a decades old business application. The company wanted a solution that would ensure its investment remained in place and meet the standard of the wider automotive industry.
The Solution:
DiCentral came up with a creative solution that would allow the company to retain its initial investments and utilize existing systems. Using Universal Adapter helped to unlock data sources and switch from the B2B logic to open API.
The Results:
The integration of data and processes has resulted in a more efficient, future-proof company. It now meets the global standards of the automotive industry in terms of EDI adoption and compliance. DiCentral was also able to share its ecosystem built to cater the wider industry, therefore minimizing disruption and maximizing the opportunity for growth.
