Get Started

Automation Without APIs: How We Work with Legacy Systems

Automation Without APIs: How We Work with Legacy Systems
A Look at Bridging the Integration Gap for SMEs

Introduction

In the world of software integrations, most businesses prefer a straightforward connection via an Application Programming Interface (API). Yet, many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) rely on “legacy” systems with no direct API support—think older ERPs, homegrown databases, or niche industry platforms built a decade (or more) ago. These systems might be essential to day-to-day operations, but integrating them with modern solutions can feel impossible.

At Ordron, we specialize in using Robotic Process Automation (RPA) to automate and integrate workflows that otherwise seem stuck in the past. Here’s how we do it and why it matters for your business.

The Challenge: Legacy Systems That Refuse to Integrate

  • No API Endpoints: Some core systems lack the protocols or documentation to exchange data automatically.
  • Outdated Tech Stack: Legacy platforms may run on archaic coding languages and frameworks.
  • Vendor Lock-In: Original vendors might be long gone—or charge steep fees for custom development.
  • Manual Data Entry: As a workaround, staff ends up copying and pasting data from one system to another, wasting precious hours and risking errors.

The net effect? Delays, frustration, and costs. Teams get buried in manual tasks that sap time and morale.

Our Approach: RPA as the “Hands and Eyes” of Integration

Robotic Process Automation, at its core, mimics human actions on a computer screen—clicking, typing, copying, pasting—while following defined rules. If a human can do it manually, an RPA bot can be taught to do it faster and without the potential for fatigue or mistakes.

Here’s how we leverage RPA to bridge the gap:

  1. Screen Scraping & UI Automation
    • Ordron’s bots interact with legacy systems through the user interface, exactly as a human would.
    • They log in, navigate screens, and capture data fields in real-time—even if the application was built 20 years ago.
  2. Data Validation & Mapping
    • Before populating a modern CRM or ERP, the bot checks for missing or corrupt entries (e.g., incomplete addresses).
    • This step ensures data accuracy before it travels downstream to other applications.
  3. Rule-Based Decision Making
    • If the legacy system’s output doesn’t match certain criteria, the bot can flag it for human review.
    • This keeps critical decision-making in the hands of your experts, while mundane tasks remain automated.
  4. Scheduled Automations
    • We configure RPA workflows to run at specific times (e.g., daily at 3 AM) or triggered by certain events.
    • Whether it’s generating a weekly financial report or syncing real-time inventory counts, the process happens automatically—no 24/7 staff needed.

Example: Bridging an Old ERP with a Modern Accounting System

Imagine an SME using a 15-year-old manufacturing ERP that outputs production data but can’t talk to newer cloud-based accounting software. Here’s how an RPA-based integration might look:

  1. Bot Logs In
    • At a set time each evening, the bot opens the ERP, enters login credentials, and navigates to the “Daily Production Report” screen.
  2. Data Extraction
    • The bot scrapes item quantities, production lines used, and timestamps—just like a human taking notes.
  3. Data Formatting
    • It then consolidates that data into a modern format (e.g., CSV, Excel) and performs quick checks (Are any figures negative? Is there missing data?).
  4. Accounting System Update
    • Finally, it launches the cloud-based accounting software, logs in, and updates records. If anything seems off, it sends an email alert to the finance team.

Outcome? One seamless workflow. No API? No problem. The “manual” steps are now reliably automated.

Key Benefits for SMEs

  1. Zero Code Changes to Legacy Systems
    • We don’t need to alter your old software or get vendor support; RPA works with the interface as-is.
  2. Time & Cost Savings
    • Automated data entry frees employees to focus on higher-level tasks, reducing overtime and error rates.
  3. Scalable & Flexible
    • Whether your business evolves or you adopt new software later, the RPA workflow can be modified to accommodate change.
  4. Increased Accuracy
    • Bots don’t get tired, bored, or make typos. Once the workflow is set, data integrity skyrockets.
  5. Fast Implementation
    • Rather than waiting months or years for a custom API or a full system overhaul, RPA deployments can go live in weeks.

Ordron’s Unique Value Proposition

Not all RPA providers are equipped to handle legacy systems effectively, but Ordron specializes in “filling the gaps” where APIs or modern connectors are absent. Our background in both UiPath and Python scripting means we can adapt to nearly any environment and address complexities other solutions avoid.

  • Holistic Data Approach: Our Data Health Check highlights exactly where automation can deliver the highest ROI.
  • Security & Compliance: We configure bots with secure credentials, ensure robust logging, and comply with industry regulations.
  • Dedicated Support: From design to deployment (and beyond), our focus is on making your operations seamless, reliable, and future-ready.

Ready to Break Free from Legacy Limitations?

Don’t let outdated systems hamper your company’s efficiency. Whether you’re looking to eliminate data re-entry or unify reporting across platforms, Ordron’s RPA solutions can help you work around the missing APIs.

Reach out to us at info@ordron.com to schedule a quick consultation. We’ll show you how automation can revolutionize your legacy-dependent workflows—no massive overhaul needed.

At Ordron, we believe in automating the tedious, so you can focus on what matters.