IDS Open API project

What is an Open API?

API stands for ‘Application Program Interface’

An API provides a mechanism by which two software programs can communicate and even access or exchange data with each other. 

APIs allow data exchange between websites, applications and organizations, while the data source remains in the same place.  (Source: www.web2fordev.net).  

APIs are more flexible and powerful than RSS feeds.

What is a mashup?

Applications built using APIs are commonly called ‘mashups’ – combine data and functionality from different programmes.  

Mashups (usually) are about:

Combination

Visualization

Aggregation

In a mashup, the emphasis is on making already existing data more useful.

http://www.schmap.com/picks

Why is IDS building an Open API?

to allow other people/organisations to utilise our data

to allow others to contextualise our data within their own services and contexts

to allow cross-platform interaction, e.g. mobile platforms, off-line applications

to entice other organisations with Southern–produced content to open up their data

Where have we got to so far?

Scoping and technical development phases done

Initial version designed for mobiles (mostly) working

…and what is happening in the coming months?

Rollout and promotion of version 1.0

Funding development of Open Source CMS plugins

Funding awards for most innovative use

And perhaps…providing our data for your portal?!

Questions / feedback?

Thanks for listening…to hear more about the Open API

project please email: d.edwards@ids.ac.uk

IDS Open API - screenshots