JSON API (SmartConnect)

Introduction

SmartSimple’s SmartConnect JSON API provides a relatively easy to use method of integrating SmartSimple information with other web services and other programs.

The API uses industry standard JSON syntax and constructs. If you are not familiar with JSON you should take a look at the following tutorial before venturing much further in this topic: [1]

General Overview of the API

In order to use the API you will take the following steps:

• Within your instance of SmartSimple you will create one or more API functions that can be called through the API.

• Each function you create is linked to a specific SmartSimple object such as Organization, Contact, Report, Universal Tracking Application Level 1 object, Level 2 and level 3.

• You define the fields that can be retrieved from that object through that function. This approach ensures that you never expose data to the API that you don't want people to use in the API.

• You choose the Action Type that you wish to use for the function. Currently there are five action types:
  • Get - Retrieve a single record for the object type you have selected in the function.
  • List - Retrieve multiple records or the object type you have selected in the function.
  • Update - Change data in one or more fields in the object you have retrieved.
  • Download File - Downloads to the browser a file you have retrieved.
  • List Files - Retrieves a list of files from a specified object.

• Once saved, each function will generates and display a key that is unique to that function in that instance. You cannot use the function unless you supply the key.

Note: SmartSimple will increase the Action Types as we continue to enhance the API.

JSON API Interactive Demonstration Page

If you want to review how the API works and interact with some sample functions and test data be sure to visit the interactive demonstration page