How to Use Sage API for eCommerce

Before we get into how to use Sage API for eCommerce, let’s take a step back and go over what Sage is, what an API is, and how you can use them from eCommerce.

Sage is a company that provides enterprise resource planning (ERP) and business management software solutions. Their products help companies streamline operations, increase automation, and save money. Some of their more popular software solutions include Sage X3, Sage Intacct, Sage 500, and Sage 100.

Sage ERP software manages backend office operations, including inventory management, warehouse management, project management, accounting and financial reporting, and more. However, Sage does not include native eCommerce functionality. It will not connect with your website without a Sage eCommerce integration. Companies often use middleware to connect their Sage and eCommerce platforms.

What is API?

API stands for Application Programming Interfaces. They are a set of rules and protocols that allow different software applications to communicate with one another. APIs are the most common method used to connect different software platforms. Other common methods include remote procedure cells (RPCs), direct database access, websharing, messaging protocols like Kafka, webhooks, and custom integration solutions.

APIs work by sending and receiving messages between the two systems, such as requests for data or functionality.

Sage APIs allow Sage to connect with other third-party modules that offer enhanced functionality. These APIs provide access to different types of data stored in Sage. Using these APIs allows other systems to read, create, update and delete data in Sage. Most Sage APIs follow RESTful architecture and use standard HTTP methods such as GET, POST, PULL and DELETE to access and perform other operations on data.

How to Use Sage eCommerce API

Using a Sage API for eCommerce requires a Sage Developer account and access to the API credentials. The developer will then access Sage and connect it to the eCommerce platform or middleware. Different types of Sage eCommerce integrations offer different functionality, including different data connection points, syncing schedules, and more.

Our E-Link Sage eCommerce integration uses Sage APIs to connect to Magento Open Source, Adobe Commerce, WooCommerce, and Shopify. It forms a real-time bidirectional data sync between Sage and your eCommerce platform.

E-Link consists of two parts, including an API that sits on top of Sage and communicates with Sage using the Sage Business Objects. When customers on the website create an order, E-Link will actually create the order as if the customer is tabbing through all the fields in Sage.  It’s interacting with Sage, not just putting data in a database.

Here are some examples of actual functionality E-Link provides in real-time:

• Inventory quantities in Sage will automatically be updated in your webstore. This prevents issues like stockouts and shipping short.
• Updated product information, including descriptions, product photos, and technical specifications from Sage will sync into your webstore.
• New orders placed in your webstore will sync into Sage for automatic order processing and faster order fulfillment.
•  Updated customer information from your webstore will sync into Sage so your customer information is always up to date.

E-Link streamlines the online ordering processing, automates manual processes, and improves the customer experience.

Sage eCommerce API for B2B

Sage is a perfect fit for B2B with the right eCommerce API. Managing B2B orders is often harder and more complex than B2C orders. They often involve negotiated pricing, custom discounts, and access to customer-specific inventory. That’s a lot to handle on a standard eCommerce website. Traditionally, placing a B2B order is a very manual and time-consuming process that may involve multiple phone calls, email threads, and quotes.

Fortunately, E-Link makes it easy to place B2B orders online.  E-Link extends your business logic in Sage into your eCommerce platform. Customers will have access to their custom-negotiated rates and custom inventory online. They’ll easily be able to place orders and reorders without the need for contacting sales or customer support. E-Link handles multiple payment options, including invoicing, credit cards, and ACH. Powered by E-Link, Sage is an ideal solution for B2B eCommerce.

Grow Your Business Today

Contact us to learn more about how E-Link can streamline operations and help grow your business. Our team of certified Sage- and eCommerce-certified professionals specializes in improving B2B and B2C eCommerce operations.

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