Web services

Interaction between systems using AJAX, SOAP and XML

We regularly build custom web applications that facilitate interaction between 3rd party software and a website.  By using technology such as AJAX, SOAP and XML it's possible to pass data seamlessly between indepenent systems.

What are these acronyms? and what do they mean?

XML is the back bone of a lot of these technologies.  It a way of encoding data in a standardised, yet highly flexible manner.  You can effectively describe and handle any type of data using XML.

AJAX refers to Asynchronous Javascript and XML - explaining how this works requires a bit of web programming knowledge, but the short description is that previously, before AJAX, for any data to pass between the end users browsers window and the server, a form submission or link needed to be clicked.  By using AJAX you can effectively leave a pipe open between the server and the browser window, meaning you can change content on a page without moving to a new page.

SOAP is Simple Object Access Protocol - is a way of passing data between two or more systems using XML as the message format.  SOAP often relys on either Remote Procedure Call or HTTP to pass data in and out of each system. 

What kind of applications do we build using these technologies?

Quite often, large organisations have an existing CRM system or internal database that stores all of their product or customer information.  We regularly have to build gateways between the internal systems and the customer facing websites.  Tasks performed are things like:

• Update and maintenance of customer record.
• Stock control and inventory management of products.
• Order processing and interaction with delivery agents.
• Access and authorisation levels for certain sections of a website.

If you have the data structure and access to the requried technology, you can effectively create any interaction necessary between systems.

If you are interested in discussing a web services project, please get in touch on 01908 565755