What is OData

Posted by Tushar Bedekar

Introduction : 

OData (Open Data Protocol) is a term that we frequently hear nowadays while dealing with sap Fiori and sap UI 5 applications. I
t is being used in other places also. It is one of the transmission control protocol which is an OASIS standard that defines a set of building and consuming RESTFUL API`s ( Application Programming Interface ).

An Open Protocol to allow the creation and consumption of queryable and interoperable API`s in a simple and standard way.

OData helps you focus on your business logic while building RESTful APIs without having to worry about the various approaches to define request and response headers, status codes, HTTP methods, URL conventions, media types, payload formats, query options, etc. OData also provides guidance for tracking changes, defining functions/actions for reusable procedures, and sending asynchronous/batch requests.
An open protocol to allow the creation and consumption of queryable and interoperable RESTful APIs in a simple and standard way.

An open protocol to allow the creation and consumption of queryable and interoperable RESTful APIs in a simple and standard way. 
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What is REST API

Posted by Tushar Bedekar

Basic Description 

The Word REST stands for Representational State Transfer which is nothing but the technology that is generally preferred to more robust simple object access protocol (SOAP) Technology. Robust because it leverages less bandwidth usage and hence more suitable for internet usage.

An API ( Application Programming Interface ) for a website or an app is a code that allows two software programs to communicate with each other. It is the program that requests the hosted services.

An API is required when we want to consume the services that are running or hosted on the other web servers rather than installing the huge redundant hardware devices as per the demand that fulfills our purpose. This can be understood by the following examples:

As we are creating the weather app for the mobile device. Now the app needs to be dynamic, that is the weather needs to change as per the environment. That we need to have some sensors to collect the data for weather. Also, there can be one approach that we install sensors at different locations across the globe for collecting the data. This will be very costly if we go like this. The second approach can be contacting some vendor/service provider that can share the required weather information.

Now as our app is ready that means we have a ready design for use and we just need some data to make the response dynamic. We can get that data from the other hosted servers dedicated for this purpose using communication interfaces such as REST API`s.

Data Format 

Now the data we receive from other serves need to have some specific format that is structured so that it can be easily understood.In case of REST API, this data format can be JSON(JavaScript Object Notation) or XML(Extensible Markup Language).

Communication Using REST API 

In Our Example here we need weather information. That may contain data such as city name, humidity level, temperature etc. Now all this data can be contained within one object or specific to one object ( instance) here that object is "weather object" which is related to whether class. As we know that each and every object has some properties such as state, behavior etc. So if we need weather data we need to first set up a connection to the specific port of the server where a particular service is running and then we need to capture the state of the object weather which is nothing but the representational state. Now, this representational state is being transferred using some communication channel called an API.The state information can be transferred in JSON or XML format.



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Mobile app development trends if you’re building an app in 2018

Posted by Tushar Bedekar

Apps are popular, and a great number of consumers around the globe regularly use their smartphone as part of their daily life. Mobile users can download apps covering all kinds of subjects and purposes. App developers have accomplished a lot when it comes to app development, as their advancements have taken apps to innovative places, with excellent and creative ideas happening along the way. The competition among app developers is increasing, of course, as consumers grow evermore reliant on their smartphones to accomplish tasks related to both their professional and personal lives.

It's critical that any mobile app developer expert know what the latest trends are in the realm of app development so they're able to keep up with the competition and possibly even pull ahead so they can make engaging apps for mobile users. Let's talk about six critical trends in particular that you should consider before the development of a mobile application.

Ensure app security


Security is easily the most crucial factor if you develop an app. Developers need to make sure that any app they create is safe for its users, so they have protection from cyber attack or viruses. Any kind of carelessness or lapse in an app's security can create damage to an app's data. Apps need to be put through security tests to make sure that their safety is assured.

Use cloud technology


The use of cloud technology in apps isn't just trendy, but actually very useful for mobile users. It helps them use apps across more than one device and even more than one kind of device. These apps need to be developed in ways that let them sync with other devices easily by using the cloud. It's very beneficial to users to be able to access similar functions and features through their mobile phone app as they can on other devices. Businesses can benefit when e-commerce apps that are used on smartphones can also be used on tablets, for instance.

Provide a robust user interface


As an app developer, you need to consider the app's user interface as you develop it all. Apps that are designed for websites have different kinds of user interface features and elements as compared to an app for a mobile piece of technology. Android and Apple phones both have their own correct user interface guidelines, and you need to adhere to them. Use appropriate icons and widgets on your app. Also, make sure there is a menu included.

Take advantage of Android Instant


Android Instant is definitely a top trend in the world of app development. It's something that lets mobile users run their apps immediately without having to first download or install that app.

Use AI


Artificial Intelligence is a growing trend in the industry of app development. It can include things like IoT and virtual personal assistants. It's advantageous to make use of this particular app development technology.

Include digital mobile payment options


A huge trend right now is letting mobile users make app payments on their phone, so include digital mobile payment features. Many mobile payment apps are in use around the world already. Successful examples include Android Pay, Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Wallet. Just make sure that your mobile payment app features are as safe as they can be considering they will be used for financial transactions.


Don’t delay in building a mobile app for your business! More apps are added to the IOS and Android store daily. Invest in mobile app development to make your business available to your target audience on their devices.
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A Strategic Approach For eCommerce Growth and Development in 2018

Posted by Tushar Bedekar

2017 was a significant year for eCommerce, as several new and impressive tweaks were integrated to online firms. And as we are heading to 2018, the technological developments are taking new twists. Below are the top eCommerce trends for 2018 that will dominate eCommerce businesses in the upcoming year.

Big data and analytics are more precise


Big data and analytics have changed most business areas, to help them get the best out of their efforts. Nowadays, most of the actions taken by consumers can be converted into some sort of data; and that information will give e-commerce websites more insight into their target group of people.

Both the parties are poised to analyze customer demand; bring out extremely personalized user experience and optimize pricing structures in future. The massive amount of data gives way for actualizing a diverse digital marketing culture that is related to the specific intentions.

In that accord, online marketers will understand when and where to channel personalized marketing, and native marketing accordingly. And in the end, it also enhances the predictions of marketing endeavors.

Mobile usage will be a force in eCommerce


With the development of technology, most people have a phone or tablet today. People usually search for goods and services and even buy them through these devices as opposed to desktop computers.

From surveys, over half of the eCommerce sales are seen to be actualized over mobile devices; and it is expected to rise exponentially over the coming years, which will significantly affect the online establishments.

The surge in the mobile market will prove to be the trendiest thing next year. According to Goldman Sachs, the world revenue share that would be held by mobile eCommerce could span to about $626 billion.

Supply chain management is more subjective


Supply chain management has a considerable impact in the eCommerce industry, which is quite volatile to deal with. This area is undergoing major improvements, eventually standing out as one of the potential giants in the eCommerce trends next year.

Three essential factors fuel these adjustments:

Automation - Automation and process integration assists firms to dissipate a clear and straightforward transition of commodity and information flow.

Data sharing - The data, for instance, the details concerning the availability of stock, information about shipping and consumer details are availed throughout the supply chain process.

Customer –Centricity - It is essential to understand your customers' targets, tastes, and traits. Effective supply chain management will be reliant on the mentioned aspects to improve its efficiency.

Micro-moments marketing are making headlines


When consumers dig for information about a commodity or check the instructions, there are some specific touching points, which are referred to the micro-moments. Designed by Think with Google, the micro-moments are one of the top eCommerce trends that are going to be dominant in 2018.

Their insatiable need for immediate fulfillment and the always-on access to data through mobile devices is behind this trait. Therefore, moments, for instance, I want to do this, but this, go here, and know this and others can be detected through their smart mobile devices.

For them to satisfy customer needs, eCommerce sellers take proper actions concerning the customer’s micro movements. This assists to precisely predict customer actions and behaviors. Huge brands are already laying their offers, taking advantage of these moments.

Voice assistant research


Voice assistants have grown significantly regarding popularity and desirability in the last couple of years. It is undeniable that people are significantly using voice-activated digital assistants such as Apple Siri, Google Assistant in their day-to-day activities.

Usually, they trigger them to action by just talking and ask them to execute some purchase related tasks. Permissive to it, client research concerning the items they would like to purchase, and even request for the balances while using the voice assistants.

A survey done recently implied that close to 40% of millennials are already venturing into voice assistant research when they want to purchase a commodity. Therefore, it holds water to be a significant thing the eCommerce world.

In that accord, the mouse and keyboard will be eliminated slowly while the voice searches make a massive rise to prominence.

Messenger applications and chat bots supplement firms


The world chatbot market has garnered a staggering 24.3% of CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate); over 45% of users ponder using chatbots as their first pick, for customer service concerns. Yes, we are in a time where messengers and chatbots rule!

Chatbots give online businesses an upper hand by directly interfacing with the entire batch of customers, in a real-time and authentic manner. Aside from that, online sellers can utilize them as well.

-Fuel client personalized marketing contents.
-Propose perfect purchase options and specific deals to potential customers.
-Collect useful insights, straight from the clients.
-Old-fashioned advertising is enhanced with chatbots.

Moreover, their integration capability with messenger applications helps to avert app fatigue. Therefore, it is undeniable that the chatbots, integrated with messenger apps will be tremendous players in the e-commerce in 2018.

Improved UX/UI for enhanced eCommerce Utility


An eCommerce firm's success relies on how the commodities are presented and how straightforward it is for clients to understand them. The two crucial matters can be dealt with by User Interface (UI) and User Experience design parts.

The UI/UX design has become better over time, and we should expect some major updates with sounder enhancement. This will significantly reduce the annoying poor aesthetics and bring out more responsive layouts. In that respect, we will be prompted to:

Prioritize mobile-responsive design, since mobile gadgets are turning out to be the primary source of product information and purchases.

Practice a clog free, and SEO friendly user interface with relevant videos, sidebars, and animations without forgetting real-time pictures to capture customer attention.

Offer navigation links to compare commodities with those of other firms to bring about competence. Align your business with an eCommerce design agency to improve your business’ digital assets.

Conclusion

eCommerce trends are continually preparing for an improved client acquisition and retention process in recent years. Not adjusting by these trends could prove to be costly. Therefore, online firms should be on their toes, analyzing the new trends and also developing new creative ideas to stay ahead of the competition. Be extra keen on eCommerce trends for 2018 and be ahead of your competitors in the business world.
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