Public API: Automation in certificate management
Certifeye, the platform for exchange of certificates and other documents, is working on the implementation of a public API. This type of API makes it possible to link the data you collect through connections with your suppliers and customers on the Certifeye platform, to other IT environments, for example your basic administration. This way, you immediately have the most current data from, for example, a grower, when purchasing their goods.
What is API?
The term API stands for “Application Programming Interface”. APIs have a wide range of uses, but at their core they are a way of making data available via an online link. As such, Internet users use these links daily by viewing Google’s weather forecasts, logging in via Facebook or when booking holidays.
Why an API?
“It is always a challenge to properly assess which technical developments have priority within the company,” describes Joost, technically responsible for the development of the API. “But we tied the knot at the beginning of last year and were able to get started immediately with several interested parties.” These organizations receive intensive guidance with multiple feedback sessions per week. These sessions make it clear what data needs to be transferred to their own records and when. “For us, the API is a strategic product that we will continually develop. By going through the process with multiple customers, we also get a better idea of what their wishes are” Joost continues.
What is the added value?
In flower cultivation and agriculture, the advantage of such API integration is significant. As everyone in the network indicates what information they do and what information they do not want to share, privacy is guaranteed. Simultaneously, you get a good insight into the supply chain of which your organization takes part. How sustainable are your suppliers and what does that mean for your own business operations?
In practice, this means a new step in the development of the Certifeye network. Users who activate this option will rarely need to open the Certifeye interface. The documents that are publicly shared by the user’s connections are automatically retrieved by the organization’s system. There, the data can be further analyzed as desired by the user. “Ultimately, it’s about having the right information available at the right time, so you can make decisions based on that.” Explains Joost.
Joost is happy to explain further benefits of this development is on a large scale. “The power of Certifeye is the centralization of documents and certificates, with their status, validity and everything around it.” The API makes it, among others, possible for large organizations, trading houses and auctions, to see which supplier meets which requirements at first glance. ” The information retrieved via Certifeye accounts and Wallets comes directly from the source, from the grower. This adds great value in terms of data reliability.
Future
What does the future of API application at Certifeye look like? “The ultimate goal of Certifeye is to automate certificate management throughout the entire chain. It’s an ongoing process with numerous parties, and we look forward to sharing more about what’s going on behind the scenes over the year!” Joost concludes.
