Interface Consumer
An application integration interface consumer is a software application that utilizes the functionalities or data exposed by another application through an integration interface. In simpler terms, it's the app that benefits from the connection.
Here's a breakdown:
Integration Interface: This is the bridge (like an API or event system) that allows applications to connect and communicate.
Consumer: This is the application that takes advantage of the connection. It "consumes" the data or functionality provided by the other application.
An example would be a shopping cart application that integrates with a payment processing service through an API. The shopping cart app (consumer) uses the API to send customer payment information to the payment processor and receive confirmation or rejection. The shopping cart app itself doesn't handle payments, it just utilizes the functionality exposed by the payment processor through the API.
Here are some key points about application integration interface consumers:
Relies on the Provider: The consumer relies on the functionality and data provided by the other application (producer) through the integration interface.
Focuses on Specific Needs: The consumer typically uses a specific subset of the functionalities or data offered by the integration interface.
Benefits from Integration: The consumer benefits by having access to data or functionalities that it wouldn't have on its own. This can lead to improved efficiency, new features, or a more seamless user experience.
There can be many consumers for a single integration interface. For instance, a social media platform's API might be consumed by mobile apps, web applications, and even other social media platforms to share content or user data.