What is native integration?

This episode of Techsplainers introduces native integration—the built-in connections that enable different applications to seamlessly work together without external middleware. We explore how these integrations function, often using APIs to facilitate data exchange while being maintained by the application vendors themselves. The discussion covers common examples of native integrations in helpdesk systems, chat applications like Slack, and CRM platforms, highlighting how they streamline workflows and save time. We examine the benefits of native integrations, including faster time-to-value, resource savings, low maintenance requirements, and better performance and reliability, while also addressing drawbacks such as limited flexibility, scalability constraints, and potential vendor lock-in. The episode concludes by introducing alternative integration approaches like Unified APIs, iPaaS, and embedded iPaaS that organizations might consider when native integrations don't meet their needs. Learn more about native integration at https://www.ibm.com/think/topics/native-integrationFind more information at https://www.ibm.biz/techsplainers-podcast Narrated by Patrick Austin