B2B APIs - Supply Chain Collaboration

Abstract

In the programming world, APIs (Application Program Interfaces) exist in different forms since the early ages of software development. However, they were built in silos with limited scope. With rapid advance of digitalization, the possibilities are advanced from mere IT integration initiative to Business Mandate – A mandate to exchange transaction data and application logic amongst the external value chain partners. This thesis focuses on usage of APIs in Supply Chain domain. This study is conducted with an anonymous (name is with-held) manufacturing organization. This study analyses the existing modes of integration, their challenges and how APIs can give a strategic advantage. The intent of the organization is to add APIs to the strategy in order to replace or compliment the current B2B integration methods. The research continues on finding what it takes an organization to introduce APIs to their Digital collaboration tool kit as a new integration method. This study highlights the preparation that need to be done not only within the enterprise, but also with the value chain partners, and the related change management. In addition, the research presents the detailed survey conducted with already existing B2B integration partners of this anonymous organization to assess their maturity. While some partners are in the initial stages of awareness, some are knowledgeable and willing to travel towards transformative API paradigm.