An open roundtable on API strategy, concerns, and practical implementation for IBM i
This webinar was originally recorded on 01-29-2026
Join us for a live roundtable-style webinar focused on APIs on IBM i, featuring industry voices from:
This interactive discussion will explore real-world API challenges, trade-offs, and implementation options facing IBM i teams today.
What we’ll discuss:
Download the slides here. (PDF)
The webinar recording is approx. 55 mins
0:00 – Introductions
0:58 – Why Do APIs Matter?
4:08 – Life with and without APIs
10:47 – API Workflow #1 (Calling)
12:12 – API Workflow #2 (Offering)
13:07 – Use Cases
21:33 – The IBM i’s Role in a Modern API World
25:05 – Demo / Use Case #1 – Food Info and Images
29:00 – Demo / Use Case #2 – Barcode Lookup
31:17 – Demo / Use Case #3 – Geocoding
34:18 – Conclusion and Key Takeaways
37:19 – Questions and Answers
50:21 – Resources
54:27 – Closing
An API (Application Programming Interface) lets systems exchange data through standardized requests and responses. For IBM i teams, APIs enable integration with carriers, vendors, CRMs, and other external systems.
APIs help provide more up-to-date information than file-based or batch integrations. They improve visibility, reduce delays, and align with partner expectations for modern system communication.
Many modern APIs have moved from XML to JSON, and some providers are retiring XML endpoints. JSON is widely supported and often lighter-weight.
Calling (consuming) an API means your IBM i system requests data from another system. Offering an API means external systems call IBM i to retrieve or update information.
In some scenarios, especially where smaller updates and faster change notifications are needed. Many organizations use APIs alongside EDI depending on partner requirements.
Security, authentication, and data governance should be designed into API projects from the start—especially when exposing internal data externally.
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