Note: This content was updated on 8/4/2025 to reflect new details about Levelpath's API capabilities.

What is an API?

The term API (Application Programming Interface), frequently pops up, especially in the context of software integration and automation. The question many have: what exactly is an API, and why should transformation leaders in an organization care about it? Let us dive into API basics as well as explore the significance of APIs in streamlining procurement, supply chain and overall business operations.

Understanding APIs

An API, or Application Programming Interface, is a set of rules and protocols that allow different software applications to communicate with each other. Think of it as a digital intermediary that translates and enables various systems to exchange data and functionality seamlessly. For example, when you use an application to book a flight, the application communicates with the chosen airline’s booking system via an API to check availability, share data back to the application and process your desired reservation.

APIs are essential tools for building software that integrates two or more applications. By the API doing this, it makes it possible for the system you are focused on to automate tasks and enhance its overall functionality without reinventing the wheel, thus accessing data from another system. For instance, a procurement platform might use an API to integrate with an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system, allowing for automated updates of inventory levels, order statuses, and financial records.

The Role of APIs in Procurement and Supply Chain

In the procurement and supply chain sectors, APIs play a crucial role in improving efficiency, accuracy and overall productivity. Here are a few ways APIs are utilized:

  • Integration with ERP Systems: APIs allow procurement software to seamlessly connect with ERP systems like SAP, SAP Ariba, Coupa, etc. This API integration ensures that all procurement activities, from requisition to payment, are automatically reflected in the company’s financial and inventory records.
  • Real-time Data Access: APIs enable real-time access to data from various sources. This real-time visibility afforded by the API helps the business make informed decisions quickly.
  • Automation of Routine Tasks: APIs can automate routine procurement tasks, such as purchase order generation, invoice processing, and payment reconciliation. This reduces manual effort and minimizes the risk of errors.
  • Enhanced Collaboration: APIs facilitate better collaboration between different departments and stakeholders by enabling seamless data exchange. For example, an API can connect the procurement system with other vendor systems to ensure that important details are updated and accessible.

Levelpath uses APIs to support a wide range of procurement use cases. It offers its own API for custom integrations and also supports open APIs from third-party systems. This allows Levelpath to integrate with other applications to enable tailored workflows and data exchanges based on specific customer needs.

How APIs Work

APIs operate through a series of requests and responses. When an application needs to access data or functionality from another system, it sends an API request. The receiving system processes this request and returns the appropriate response. This interaction is governed by a set of rules defined by the API, ensuring that both systems can understand and process the exchanged information.

For instance, consider a procurement application that needs to update a supplier in an ERP. The procurement app sends a request via the API to the ERP, which then responds, by accepting the supplier update data. This data exchange happens in real-time, allowing the procurement team to pass necessary data in a dynamic fashion based on accurate information.

Conclusion

APIs are the backbone of modern software integration, providing the necessary connections that enable different systems to work together seamlessly. For procurement and supply chain professionals, leveraging APIs means enhanced efficiency, real-time data access, and the ability to automate routine tasks, all of which contribute to greater productivity and a more effective operation.

Understanding and utilizing APIs has become increasingly important for the enterprise to stay competitive and responsive in the dynamic world of procurement and supply chain management.

The Levelpath Difference

At Levelpath, we don’t just provide a software solution; we provide a customer commitment in the form of a partnership. Our success team is dedicated to empowering procurement with the knowledge, tools and support they need to stay curious and continually drive procurement transformation. From initial workspace setup to advanced customization and beyond, the Levelpath community is there every step of the way.Are you ready to unlock the full potential of your procurement processes? Discover how the Levelpath platform will revolutionize the way you work. Let us build a path to success, together.