Integrations and API

A REST API is the most common way to build an API for web systems. It uses ordinary HTTP requests — just like a browser — with clear addresses for resources (for example, /orders) and the actions GET (retrieve), POST (create), PUT/PATCH (change) and DELETE (remove). Data is usually exchanged in JSON format.

A webhook is a way for one system to automatically tell another that something has happened — for example, a payment has been received or an order created. Instead of your system asking every now and then "anything new?", the other system sends a message to a specified address by itself.

An API key is a unique code a program uses to identify itself when accessing another system’s API — a bit like a password for programs. It determines who is requesting the data and what they may do. An API key must be kept secret: it must not end up in public code, e-mails or the browser side.

An API (application programming interface) is the way programs talk to each other. It is like a "door" into a system through which another program can securely request or send data — for example, an online store sends an order to accounting, or a website gets an exchange rate. Without an API, data between programs has to be copied by hand.

System integration means connecting different programs so that data flows between them automatically: an order from the online store reaches the warehouse and accounting, a customer from a website form reaches the CRM. Integration eliminates retyping, duplicated data and errors.

Choose a payment service provider that supports the methods you need (cards, bank payments, Apple Pay, Google Pay, recurring payments), sign a contract and integrate its API into your system. Confirm the payment status with a webhook, not just when the customer returns to the page.

The online store is connected to the inventory and accounting system via an API or regular data exchange: products and stock levels flow from the warehouse to the store, while orders and payments flow from the store to the warehouse and accounting. That way stock levels are always up to date and invoices don’t have to be entered by hand.

First find out what integration options your accounting software offers — an API, import formats or ready-made connectors. Then decide what data needs to move (customers, invoices, payments, products), in which direction and how often, and which system is the "master" for each type of data.

Many state and commercial registers in Latvia provide data through APIs or data services — often with a contract and authentication. Integration lets your system check company details, machinery or other information automatically instead of someone searching the register’s website by hand.

Yes, simple connections can be built with no-code tools such as Zapier, Make, n8n or Power Automate, as long as both programs have ready-made connectors. You need a developer when the integration is critical, the rules are complex, you have to work with local systems without connectors, or you need security and error control.