Software and apps
Application programming interface API
The way one piece of software talks to another. Your CRM has an API so your website form can create a lead in it; your payment processor has one so your app can charge a card.
Why it matters for your business
When a vendor says "we have an API", it means your other tools can connect to it and you are not locked into their screens. When they do not, you are typing data twice. Ask about the API before you buy anything you will rely on.
In practice
A shuttle company's ride dashboard pulls trips from the ride system's API every few minutes and shows ridership to the university client without anyone exporting a spreadsheet.
Related terms
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