We need to integrate Business Central with some proprietary legacy systems. What API options are available for integration? Are there any good integrators someone can recommend?

Business
1

We need to integrate Business Central with some proprietary legacy systems. What API options are available for integration? Are there any good integrators someone can recommend?

2

API is normally a server that pull and push data from and to a source. My experience is that API as tool is useless if not the source allow communication.

I should ask the vendors of these proprietary systems. Is there no built in way to communicate to their systems, it may be harder.

If these systems are built upon a database, you may establish a direct contact to the database?

Otherwise you may look at the old import-export way. Not that I recommend it, but if all other doors are closed, it may be an option.

3

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central (often just called Business Central or BC) offers robust APIs and integration options for both standard and custom needs. Here’s a brief rundown of the options available for integration:

1. Web Services (APIs):

Business Central provides OData V4 Web Services which you can use for integration. There are three types of web services:

  • OData V4: Provides access to business entities via CRUD operations.
  • SOAP: This allows you to expose pages and code units as web services.
  • OData V3 (deprecated): An older version of OData, which Microsoft no longer recommends for new integrations.

2. Connect Apps:

These are apps you can find in the Microsoft AppSource that provide integration solutions for Business Central. They are pre-built solutions for popular software like CRM systems, e-commerce platforms, etc.

3. Custom Extensions:

You can develop custom extensions using AL (the programming language for Business Central). With AL, you can modify existing or create new integration points depending on the requirements.

4. Power Platform:

You can also use Microsoft’s Power Platform (Power Apps, Power Automate, and Power BI) to build custom applications, automate workflows, and visualize data.

5. Events & Extensions:

With the introduction of events in Business Central, it’s easier than ever to create extensions that respond to certain triggers without modifying the base application code.

Integrators:

While there are numerous integrators available, the right one for you depends on your region, specific requirements, and budget. Some globally recognized ones include:

  1. KingswaySoft: They offer an SSIS Integration Toolkit for Dynamics 365, which can be useful if you’re familiar with SQL Server Integration Services.
  2. eOne Solutions: They provide a product called SmartConnect designed for complex integrations.
  3. Scribe: Now part of TIBCO, they offer data integration platforms that work with Business Central.

For complex scenarios, especially with proprietary legacy systems, it might be beneficial to partner with a Microsoft partner specializing in Business Central. They can provide insights, best practices, and hands-on support tailored to your specific environment and needs.

Recommendation: Before choosing an integrator or approach, document your requirements thoroughly. Know what data needs to sync, the direction of data flow, how often it should sync, and any transformation or business logic that needs to be applied. This will guide your decision and ensure that the chosen solution meets your business needs.