Ask HN: What is the argument against a custom integration vs. API?

clscott · on April 1, 2015

In order to start a meaningful discussion it would help if you defined your terms and present an example scenario.

efremjw · on April 1, 2015

Obscure ecommerce platform ABC doesn't have an API with inventory management software XYZ. The ABC customer is considering paying a few thousand bucks for the integration with XYZ. Other ecommerce platforms have an API with XYZ. Should the customer pay for the integration or seriously consider changing ecommerce platforms? What are the critical ongoing performance and maintenance factors to consider?

clscott · on April 2, 2015

They should consider switching, but the criteria needs to be outlined and weighted by the actual customer.

It all comes down to migration and maintenance costs and appetite for risk.

The primary question is will I get what I need on budget in the shortest time frame with option ABC or option XYZ?

The secondary questions are:

* If I need to extend the integration in 6 months with this solution what will it cost and how long will it take and do I have flexibility in who can do the work? * Can I upgrade to the next major version of ABC or XYZ and reasonably expect that my custom integration will keep working.

efremjw · on April 2, 2015

Thank you - the last sentence of your last point is my main concern.