API

What is an API?

An Application Programming Interface (API) is a software intermediary. It allows two applications to easily exchange information and perform the necessary actions to interpret the data and present it back to the user easily. APIs shield the user from unnecessary complexities while also reducing double handling and redundancies by going straight to the data source.

Think of it like this: when you go to a restaurant, the waiter takes your order, sends it to the kitchen and returns with your food. In this example, the waiter is the API or the intermediary. They translated your order request from their notes, into the computer system, to the chefs in the kitchen, and eventually returned with your meal. The waiter shielded you from all the behind the scenes complexities. You didn’t have to worry about stoves, dishes or managing stock, because the waiter was the middle person between you and the restaurant services.

Why should you use an API?

It’s faster! APIs streamline the process by enabling compatibility between your system and the Chemwatch system. Our APIs take advantage of existing functional capabilities in each system and remove the middleman, efficiently inputting this data without any double handling and manual processing required from your workforce. This frees up your workforce for other activities.

Interoperability efficiency is increased as we are using an existing functional capability in the system rather than recreating that same functionality in a new system. The use of APIs result in higher quality data by decreasing data redundancy across the system, which is a major cause of dirty information.

When is an API useful?

Most clients use APIs to connect their ERP systems, including SAP, MYOB, Oracle, and Microsoft. The connections that are created feed data and documents back to the ERP, enabling the user to make informed decisions. A major benefit of API integration is to ensure that certain chemicals are safe and permitted before the procurement process commences.

Some clients have implemented two-way connectors; not only can the Chemwatch system deliver data into your ERP systems, your ERP system can deliver data into the Chemwatch system, such as requests for adding new materials and changes to volumes.

What kind of data can the API retrieve?

Which APIs do Chemwatch offer?

Who is Chemwatch?

Chemwatch maintains the world’s largest database of chemicals, with over 3,215,992 substances, 140M SDS, and chemical regulatory solutions that support local and global requirements in over 90 countries. We are the global leader in chemicals management solutions. It is access to this comprehensive database that gives our clients a unique edge over other chemical management providers.