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Discover why open architecture is a key component to a long-term flexible solution 

By ProShip Co-Founder, Justin Cramer

Many companies proudly talk about their commitment to “Open Architecture.” But what does that truly mean? Is it the same as Open Source? Is it simply a buzzword, or does it offer tangible benefits? Does it mean that all your data is open for everyone to see? Let’s shed light on these questions and explore the advantages of Open Architecture in this article.

What is Open Architecture?

Open Architecture is a term that originated with hardware and is a software design philosophy that emphasizes flexibility, customization, and integration. Many may be familiar with the PC vs. Mac hardware battles of the '90s and '00s, where PC users would celebrate the ability to add whatever they wanted to their computers. In contrast, Apple Macs were considered to be in a "walled garden," aka, a “Closed Architecture”. Unlike closed systems, Open Architecture allows businesses to go beyond the limitations of pre-packaged software.

You would be delighted if everything you wanted was already in a Mac. However, if you wanted something Apple still needed to support, it would be nearly impossible for an end user to add it. You had to petition the vendor to work with Apple to allow interactivity. Software is the same. Many products are shrink-wrapped. They can only do what the developers created them to do. Just as PC users in the '90s celebrated the ability to add hardware components to their computers, software with Open Architecture is designed to be extended, changed, and connected with. This is achieved through the use of APIs (Application Programming Interfaces), which are programming interfaces that enable seamless communication and integration with other systems.

The Benefits of Open Architecture

One of the most significant advantages of Open Architecture-based software is its excellent connectivity. Modern software relies heavily on APIs and other methods to produce a clean separation of concerns and facilitate seamless integration with other systems. Most of those APIs will be XML-based or the more modern RESTful JSON formats, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of technologies.

Open Architecture software goes beyond simple connectivity. Beyond the ability to connect with various internal systems, Open Architecture-based software is more likely to connect with other systems regardless of their technology, from legacy flat files to modern OpenID-secured RESTful JSON. This means Open Architecture software can seamlessly pull data from existing systems such as your old mainframe, IBM i Series AS/400, and Database-Driven software, all the way to your latest cloud-enabled SaaS solutions to streamline workflows and improve overall efficiency.

For example, imagine integrating your shipping software with your e-commerce platform. With Open Architecture, you can automatically synchronize orders, track shipments, and provide real-time updates to customers. This level of integration would be significantly more challenging or even impossible with a closed architecture system.

By contrast, closed systems often require custom development or complex workarounds to achieve similar levels of integration. This can be time-consuming, costly, and prone to errors. Open Architecture, on the other hand, not only enhances the customer experience but, most importantly, reduces manual data entry and minimizes errors.

Enhanced Security and Flexibility

Is Open Architecture software less secure? No, quite the opposite. It is easier to update Open Architecture software to the latest secure protocols. Why? Most Open Architecture software is either modularized or containerized. This makes it similar for vendors to replace the input/output modules (IO modules) with the latest standards without having to touch every single component in the solution. This agility is crucial in today's rapidly evolving threat landscape.

The Future of Software

Imagine the ability to seamlessly add a new carrier or implement a cutting-edge feature without extensive system modifications. Open Architecture makes this a reality, empowering businesses to stay ahead of the curve and deliver exceptional value to their customers.

By separating the software into components, it is also easier to add new features. In the case of shipping software, this means that adding new carriers, such as same-day carriers, specialty carriers, etc., or adding new features like Address Validation or Cubing Logic is a straightforward and seamless process. This adaptability ensures that your software can grow and evolve alongside your business needs. It also means that updating these features means only replacing the module affected by the change. With a good system, these modules can be replaced while the system is still operating. The same concept as hot-swapping in hardware.

In the end. Open Architecture provides more flexibility, more options, greater security, and a forward-looking solution that can change and grow as your software needs change. By prioritizing flexibility, customization, and integration, Open Architecture empowers businesses to adapt to changing market conditions, meet evolving customer needs, and stay ahead of the competition.

From enhanced security and scalability to seamless integration and continuous improvement, Open Architecture provides a solid foundation for businesses of all sizes. By embracing this innovative approach, you can unlock the full potential of your software and drive your organization toward success.

At ProShip, we understand the importance of Open Architecture in today's dynamic business landscape. Our multi-carrier shipping software is designed with flexibility and scalability in mind, allowing businesses to easily adapt to changing needs and integrate with various systems. By choosing a ProShip product, you're investing in a shipping solution that empowers your organization to thrive in the digital age.

Ready to experience the benefits of Open Architecture firsthand? Contact us today to learn more about how ProShip can help you streamline your shipping operations and drive growth.