Why Navia API is the King of Integrations
You’ve probably heard of APIs and are most likely already using one even if you don’t know it. However, there can be confusion as to why it’s beneficial for companies to use APIs over other integration methods. A further consideration is how using an API can positively improve business operations and your bottom line.
Historically, supply chain and logistics professionals have become accustomed to EDI integrations, which stands for Electronic Data Interchange. This is a direct system-to-system exchange of information or documents in a standardized format. The complications arise here in that many different standards exist, so if one business has its information structured in such a way that it does not speak with the other, there can be some difficulty in integrating. As such, these integrations can take months to complete and be quite costly for both participants.
Conversely, an API integration puts a layer in between these systems allowing for the data to be “translated” into an agreed-upon format. API stands for Application Programming Interface and refers to software that connects two other applications. In other words, an API sets the rules by which two other applications will abide when communicating. It maps out how these two applications will structure the requests and responses they send to each another.
We have now just released our very own Navia API which will allow our software, to speak with yours. We are now one of the select few logistics partners in the world that can provide you with a plug-and-play REST API, straight out of the box. No lengthy integration process that takes months.
What does Navia API allow me to do as a Supply Chain Manager/Logistics Manager?
Navia API allows you to share data between Navia’s internal systems and your in-house ERP or accounting system with a simple integration. This means your team will be able to see information such as ETA changes, delivery confirmations, inventory status and warehouse order information.
Organization-wide Availability of Data
With your data now living inside your ERP, teams that may previously needed to ask the supply chain team for information (or a login to the NaviaHub) can now see this information in existing systems. E.g. a sales representative may have previously called the logistics manager for an ETA, but now they can see this within the ERP they already have access to.
Improved Efficiency
By automating manual tasks, you save time and money on double handling of information. Furthermore, where your supply chain team may have previously been the conduit between Navia and other areas of your business, this time can now be spent on higher-value tasks, like supply chain planning and strategy.
Reduced Errors
Again, by automating this data exchange, you minimize human error and ensure greater accuracy in managing your data.
Real-time Visibility
By bringing your data directly from our system into yours, the second a change is made, this will reflect inside your ERP or accounting software.
Enrich Existing Integrations
You may have existing integrations with partners further down the supply chain and as such, your Navia data will also enrich those integrations.
How can I get access to Navia API?
To access Navia API you’ll need to do a few things
Be a Navia Client
Navia API is built for clients who use Navia to move their cargo and manage their logistics
Talk to your IT department
Your IT department will be familiar with REST APIs and most likely have the skills to integrate with one
Request an API Key
Upon request, our team will provide your technology team with an API key to access our Developer Portal
Access API Documentation and testing platform
Once your team have access to our Developer Portal, they can download our documentation and testing platform to begin integrating
Integrate your ERP or system of choice with Navia
Through more traditional integration methods this could take months, but with Navia API this could be done in weeks or even days
