The data exchange will not have to take place only by means of exported files, but it will be a non-stop communication between our and customer systems' databases. Furthermore, this technology opens the door for us to use data exchange in the implementation of advanced technologies in contract logistics.

Why is API becoming more and more popular?
API is a type of software that connects different, independent systems and software components. It is an interface for communication and basic interaction between systems. It uses sharing of data and services for various purposes in a stable and secure manner.

Jan Tafat, IT Director of Geis in the CEE region says: "With this interface we are able to integrate services into our information systems or interconnect different systems with each other. The API creates a great space for sharing data and integrating solutions. This creates a lot of opportunities for development and use."

In logistics, it enables the exchange of data between the logistics provider and the customer. The use of APIs will allow us to easily and quickly exchange data between the two parties and thus manage logistics processes efficiently. At the same time, custom development will give us the flexibility to further optimize our processes and connection structure for individual customers and their specific needs.

The main benefits include easy and fast data exchange between the two parties, efficient process management and improved customer service.

Using APIs, we can provide customers with access to order and shipment information such as status, expected delivery, shipment history and more in real-time. Customers can also use the API to create and manage orders, transfer shipment data from shipper to carrier, print labels, check shipment overview, contacts, reports, all in real time.

We see further potential here to improve the quality of service we provide, and at the same time we will be able to further accelerate and simplify the implementation of new solutions.

Potential also for mobile devices and ever-expanding cloud solutions
The simplicity and security of connecting services via APIs provides room for continuous innovation and accelerates the development of modern services. Ubiquitous mobile devices provide the perfect environment for service-based APIs, pushing their development ever forward.

Jan Tafat adds, "More and more companies are migrating to cloud infrastructure and leveraging the computing power of the cloud. APIs perfectly manage to support the entire process of data migration to the cloud. They are needed in the initial data migration, but also in the later stages for long-term data integration."

From an end-user perspective, APIs enable fast and secure access to services. From the perspective of business partners, APIs provide a secure and stable way to gain access to various third-party resources.

Data security first
At Geis, we also care deeply about the security of our customers' data, so we hold our API communication setup to our high security standards. Security is structured into several levels on both hardware and software basis, the entire solution has been security certified and there is further regular ongoing verification of all security layers.

By developing a new custom API for the contract logistics solution, we are opening up a wide area for future use. This will push our solutions into even greater flexibility and variability.