Glossary · APIs and integrations
Integration
A maintained connection that lets separate systems exchange data, events, or actions.
Also called: integrations
Definition
An integration combines an interface such as an API or webhook with authentication, data mapping, error handling, monitoring, and an owner for changes. The visible connection is only one part of the operational dependency.
Why it matters
Integrations reduce duplicate work but can also create silent failure paths and vendor dependencies that need monitoring.
Common misunderstanding
Connecting two accounts once does not guarantee the connection will remain authorized, compatible, or correct.
Related terms
Related system family: Secure Integrations & Custom Tools
Sources
- GitHub REST API documentation (opens in a new tab) · GitHub Docs
Last reviewed July 16, 2026