Clarify the business outcome and system boundaries
“Connect two systems” is not a sufficient objective. Define the triggering event, transferred data, target action, and how success or failure will be confirmed.
Prepare API permissions and test conditions
Confirm that the platform provides supported APIs, webhooks, sandbox accounts and required permissions. Credentials should be shared securely and separated across development, test and production.
- API documentation and version
- Authentication and permission scope
- Rate limits and quotas
- Test data and sandbox accounts
Create field and state mappings
Matching field names do not guarantee matching meaning. Map required fields, formats, units, enums, nulls and defaults, and define conflict resolution rules.
Order, payment, fulfillment and refund status should use a state model that defines valid transitions and recoverable intermediate states.
Design error handling and operations early
After launch, someone must review failed jobs, renew authorization, handle field changes and respond to API version updates. Delivery should include logs, alerts, retries, manual resolution and change documentation.