Unified API vs embedded iPaaS

This blog is not like “In this blog, we’ll help you to understand differences between Unified API vs embedded iPaaS” but instead:

We’ll explain it like never explained before..

What is a unified API?

Probably you think unified API is easy to understand “ One API to build all APIs”. But actually, it is one aggregated API to connect to multiple 3rd-party providers in the same software category. So it can’t connect your data for CRM and Accounting tools at once.

What is Embedded IPaaS

Embedded integration platforms are built for product teams that need to offer their customers integrations with business tools. So what? Alright, let's break down the concept of "Embedded iPaaS”

Imagine you're building a complex Lego set. Instead of searching for individual pieces in different boxes (which can be quite a hassle and time-consuming), you have a special box that already contains exactly the pieces you need, and it even comes with a guide on how to fit those pieces into your current set seamlessly. This special box is like an Embedded iPaaS in the world of software applications.

What is iPaaS?

Firstly, iPaaS is a cloud-based platform that helps different software applications "talk" to each other. It's like a translator or a middleman that allows two apps to share data and functions, even if they were not originally designed to do so. This is crucial for businesses that use multiple software tools and want them to work together harmonically.

The "Embedded" Part

Now, when we say "Embedded iPaaS," we're talking about integrating this iPaaS functionality directly inside another application. Instead of going to a separate platform to manage these connections and data flows between apps, you can do it from within one of the apps itself. It's embedded, meaning it's tucked into the software just like embedding a video directly onto a webpage instead of linking to it externally.

unified API vs embedded iPaaS

Unified APIs standardize data and functionality of distinct systems into one API but are limited to common features across apps and may not handle non-standard operations well. They do not offer a fully built integration stack and often require users to build most of the integration themselves.

On the other hand, embedded iPaaS like Tray Embedded and Paragon offer a low-code integration builder for developers/support teams with some abilities to embed it inside your app and add some configuration UI. However, with these systems, you typically need to build every integration flow for every external app, which becomes untenable quite fast. They are not a part of your application, just iframes embedded in it, which does not feel like a part of your app.

iPaaS: A New Era Beyond Workato, Make, Zapier

Traditional integration platforms like Workato, Make, and Zapier have set the stage for the first wave of integration solutions. Yet, they carry certain drawbacks. Mainly, they demand that users start their integration projects from zero on a separate platform. This disrupts the overall user experience and introduces extra complexity.

On the other hand, Integration.app brings a more intuitive method that integrates directly within your app. Our approach is straightforward: why push your users out of their familiar environment when you can deliver integrations right to where they are? By embedding our integrations within your application, we remove the need to switch to external platforms, providing a smoother and more unified user experience.

Embedded iPaaS: Moving Beyond Tray.io, Paragon, Prismatic

Embedded iPaaS options, such as Tray.io, Paragon, and Prismatic, have tried to overcome the challenges posed by traditional iPaaS by integrating directly within applications. Yet, they tend to use iframes, which can disrupt the app's natural look and feel. Furthermore, when you need to integrate with several apps, the process doesn’t scale well since each integration demands its own setup and maintenance.

Integration.app goes beyond these barriers by delivering an integration experience that truly feels like part of your app, both in appearance and in code. With our API-first mindset and cutting-edge AI technology, we can automatically create similar integrations, drastically cutting down the time and effort needed to expand across many applications. We envision a future where integration is not just an add-on but a natural extension of your product.

Unified APIs: Merge, Apideck

Unified API services like Nango, Merge, and Apideck offer a consolidated API to handle the basic functions of various apps. But they struggle with more complex, unique tasks. For example, if you want to use custom fields created by your users in external application, unified APIs can’t help you. Their general-purpose API often misses out on leveraging each application's distinctive features.

In contrast, Integration.app is much more than just an API. We offer a comprehensive set of integration tools and infrastructure customized for your specific integration needs.

From managing everyday tasks to tackling the special features of each app, Integration.app covers it all without a hitch.

We enable you to create and manage complex integration workflows, customize settings for your customers, and solve problems efficiently. Unlike many unified API providers based in the U.S., facing time zone challenges and limited working overlap, Integration.app's global team offers 7/24 support. Moreover, we address another common issue with unified API services. Most unified API companies are located in USA and then don’t offer data hosting in Europe, which we fully support.

Combining flexibility of iPaaS with simplicity of Unified APIs

While Unified API solutions provide a solid foundation for cross-platform integration, Integration.app builds on this by offering a more adaptable, developer-centric, and scalable approach. Its emphasis on customization, AI-powered efficiency, and global support makes it an attractive option for businesses looking to harness the full potential of their integrations. In essence, Integration.app is not just an alternative to unified APIs; it's a comprehensive solution designed to meet the evolving needs of modern businesses in a digitally interconnected landscape.

Conclusion

At Integration.app, we're not just participating in the evolution of SaaS integrations; we're leading it. Learn how we help organizations — like Airmeet, Glyphic, Potion and many more to build integrations, save lots of resources, maintain API lifecycle and more by scheduling a demo with one of our integration experts. You can also test our platform by creating a free account.