A defined contract
Each API defines the requests it accepts and the data it returns.
[ glossary — software ]
What is API integration?
A plain-English guide to API integration for teams connecting payments, customer records, orders and other business systems.
( how it works )
One system calls another.
Authenticated requests
Credentials identify the caller. Authorization rules and scoped permissions control which data and actions that caller can access.
Data exchange
The systems send and receive structured data, like payments or order records.
Automated actions
Events or scheduled jobs trigger updates, with retries and reconciliation when systems are unavailable.
( where it fits )
Common integrations that save time.
Payments
Accept and reconcile card payments with processors like Stripe and Shopify Payments.
Commerce
Sync orders, inventory, and shipping between storefront and fulfilment systems.
CRM and marketing
Move leads and contacts into your CRM and email automation automatically.
Accounting and AI
Post invoices to accounting and feed business data to AI agents for automation.
( faq )
Common questions
What is an API?
An API, or Application Programming Interface, is a defined way for software to request data or actions from another system. It's a contract that lets programs talk to each other.
Why do I need API integrations?
Integrations can reduce repeated data entry and coordinate updates between tools. Depending on the APIs, updates may happen immediately, on a schedule or after an event.
What are common API integration examples?
Payment processing, eCommerce inventory sync, email marketing, CRM, accounting, analytics, shipping, and authentication services.
Is API integration secure?
Security depends on implementation. Use encrypted transport, protected credentials, narrowly scoped permissions, input validation, rate limits and monitoring. Review which data and actions each connected system can access.
How long does an integration take?
It varies from a few days for a simple standard API to several weeks for complex, custom, or legacy systems.
Can Udaan build API integrations?
Yes. We connect payment, commerce, CRM, accounting, AI, and internal systems so your tools work together reliably.