Is API Management The Route To The "Extensible Enterprise"?

API and services company Mashery has announced a new version of its core management platform. It is designed to allow programmers to use existing XML gateways or other web service technologies to join the movement currently pushing towards increased use of API technology.

The firm's concept is for developers to use its API management solution for web service technology environments to extend the value of existing software investments.

Talking about what it calls the "extensible enterprise", Mashery says that firms today rely on a growing number of partners, as well as mobile and connected devices to drive success. Today's enterprises are meeting this need by increasingly enabling their customers and partners with business processes and services in the cloud.

If we accept the above arguments, we can appreciate Mashery's view that APIs will play a critical role in how these companies are becoming data-powered business platforms and content publishers, in their own right. It's is also worth noting that APIs give enterprises the ability to generate a "platform effect" by scaling and syndicating services for accelerated strategic business growth.

"IT and business leaders alike are under increasing pressure to tailor web service access for the demands of mobile workforces, and to the requirements of business development opportunities," said Chris Lippi, VP of product at Mashery.

"At the same time, IT has anchored existing security and business policies in existing web service technology investments and proven business workflows, controls, and visibility. Mashery's new solution allows enterprises to maintain existing web services investments while rapidly deploying a SaaS-based API platform, developer portal, and management software. This partnership with Intel offers their customers these benefits," he added.

Mashery says that its solution for on-premise web services technologies allows enterprises in any stage of mobility or API deployment to begin fuelling business development, affiliate programs, and cross-organizational and external innovation via partners, developers, or employees.