API Automation
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If your process interacts with and transfers data between multiple applications, I will likely recommend API integration as a solution for automation.
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API (Application Programming Interface) is the method in which two programs can communicate with each other. API integration is the process of connecting the APIs of various applications to enable automatic transfer of data and commands.
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Many workflow automation tools provide an interface for non-technical users to connect applications using drag-and-drop pre-built connectors. Management software such as CRM (Customer Relationship Management) tools, project management tools, and email marketing platforms can even allow users to connect and integrate with outside applications using this technology.
API integration tools, like Zapier and IFTTT, provide a no-code interface for connecting multiple applications. These integrations allow business owners to automate tasks such as data entry, notifications, and scheduling without any programming experience. However, the pre-built connectors of these tools can be limiting and inflexible.
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The main benefit of API integration tools is their scalable and affordable pay-as-you-need hosting model. This model allows business owners to run automations on remote "cloud" servers instead of their own computers. This is especially useful when an automation relies on external triggers to run, such as an event happening in an application. Users are not always present at their computer when these events happen, but hosting the automation on a server allows the events to be handled instantly. This provides maximum flexibility for business owners because the automations can happen behind-the-scenes.
How I use API automation
API integration is my preferred way to automate because it is more stable and has a better infrastructure compared to other options. I use integration tools like Pipedream, Make (formerly Integromat), and Zapier to leverage the powerful and user-friendly pre-built connectors.
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Occasionally, the no-code interface of a tool cannot automate a specific task of an application, so I will read the API documentation to determine whether the capability exists via API at all. If it does, I can accomplish the automation by sending custom API requests with the integration tool. This allows me to use both no-code and advanced automation solutions within the same workflow. If the capability is not available with existing API endpoints, I will explore alternative ways to automate the task. Sometimes this requires restructuring the automation, changing assumptions, or even redesigning the process.
How I can help you
The main benefit of hiring me to automate your workflows is that I have the experience and knowledge to analyze the capabilities of API and implement solutions that are both reliable and customized to your needs. Certain processes may seem simple to automate from a user's perspective, but from an API perspective are actually quite complex.
I also understand the strengths and weaknesses of different integration tools, so I can recommend the option best suited to your business needs. Furthermore, even though workflow automation tools are intended to be user-friendly, troubleshooting issues that arise can be frustrating for a non-technical user. I have several years of experience developing and debugging software, so I design my automations with error-handling in mind, giving you the assurance that errors will have minimal interruption to your critical processes.
In summary, if you're looking for a smooth and streamlined experience with your automation project, hiring me gives you the peace of mind that your automations will be implemented effectively and efficiently.