5 Primary Methods to Automate OpenAir Data Imports and Exports

It is often necessary or desired to transfer data between OpenAir and other systems.  While many options are available to accommodate this, there are five primary methods to automate OpenAir imports and exports.  Below is each method along with the pros and cons of each:

1. Direct connection from an external application to OpenAir
   • Pros:
     • Access OpenAir data directly from other systems or applications with no middleware required
     • Can reach OpenAir in real-time
   • Cons:
     • Requires API key purchase and knowledge of specific API technologies (SOAP/XML)

2. Direct connection from OpenAir to an external application
   • Pros:
     • Contained entirely within OpenAir, respects OpenAir’s security
     • Does not require an API key purchase
   • Cons:
     • Can’t process data real-time

3. Indirect with Middleware
   • Pros:
     • Most middleware tools have pre-built connectors for numerous systems
     • Little or no development experience required
   • Cons:
     • Can be costly
     • Requires purchase of API keys on top of middleware costs

4. OA Business Intelligence Connector
   • Pros:
     • Uses standard technology (OData protocol) that many tools can interact with
     • Able to export list views as well as reports
   • Cons:
     • Extra cost (in addition to OpenAir license)
     • Export data out of OpenAir only – does not facilitate imports

5. Integration Manager
   • Pros:
     • Simplest method, well-suite for one-time imports/exports
   • Cons:
     • Challenging to automate; has to reside on an always-on Windows system
     • Changes often require rebuilding the import/export configuration from the beginning