Clients can save time and increase the accuracy of transferee initiations in their relocation program through an Application Programming Interface, or relocation API. An API provides a framework for different computer systems to communicate and share information. Generally, it lists operations that software developers can use in their design work. Also, an API includes descriptions for what they actually do. A relocation API facilities the communication of information that a Relocation Management Company (RMC) uses for initiations or other relocation-related functions.
Where Should a Client Start with a Relocation API?
The Global Mobility Solutions (GMS) team of developers has extensive experience building APIs to help clients with their relocation program needs. The team recently built an exceptionally robust relocation API for a client’s in-house system to interact with MyRelocation®. Award winning cloud-based MyRelocation® technology is specifically designed to streamline a company’s relocation management.
The GMS MyRelocation® technology provides everything a transferee needs to track and manage their relocation. It also provides clients with an advance financial reporting dashboard including over 200 custom reports on demand.
GMS’ team of developers recommends that before discussing a relocation API, clients should identify their goals. Having clear goals and defined end tasks helps developers quickly hone in on several possible solutions that will work correctly. In general, clients should consider goals including:
- Increasing process efficiency
- Improving data accuracy
- Providing flexibility for data and processes
- Enhancing speed of data transfer
- Additional and possible future uses for the relocation API data
For example, a client may want to implement a relocation API to replace current processes of completing online forms or submitting PDF documents that duplicate data in the client’s current system. Many clients with transferees already have the relocating employee’s information within their internal Human Resource Information System (HRIS). A relocation API can leverage this data to facilitate relocation initiations in the MyRelocation® portal. That same data is then available for use to interface with the GMS Travel Management Program. It might also be of use with visa and immigration systems for global relocations.
What does a Relocation API do?
Once a client defines their goals, developers can work together to define the relocation API. Major elements of it should include:
- What the API actually does—the data it communicates with between systems
- How the API works within the systems—where does data reside and how does it move between systems
- The specific actions on each side of the interface to facilitate its functioning
By taking a holistic approach to development, clients and GMS can anticipate relocation program requirements and transferee needs. Clients can achieve significant process efficiencies and direct time savings toward value-added corporate objectives.
What Should Employers do?
Employers should examine their current relocation programs and processes to identify opportunities to create a relocation API. This will help internal departments increase their efficiency and save valuable time they can use to focus on business goals and corporate objectives.
Employers should work with a qualified and experienced Relocation Management Company (RMC) that can provide guidance and insight as to best practices for developing a relocation API. Industry-leading relocation technology solutions are specially designed to quickly and easily integrate with each client’s Human Resource Information Systems.
Conclusion
Global Mobility Solutions’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients understand how to identify and develop their relocation API. Our team can help your company create a relocation API that follows industry best practices. As a result, your company will save time, and increase its data accuracy.
GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com. The company also created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation® technology platform.
Global Mobility Solutions is proud to be named and ranked #1 Overall, and #1 in Quality of Service by HRO Today’s 2019 Baker’s Dozen Customer Satisfaction Survey.
Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions, the relocation industry and technology experts. Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s interest in developing a relocation API, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.
John Fernandez | CRP, GMS, SSB
Executive Vice President John oversees global operations, marketing, business development as well as reporting and analytics. John’s 23 years of mobility experience include excellence in varied positions such as Relocation Counselor, International Assignment Manager, Manager of Latin American Operations, Director of International Operations, Global Account Executive, Vice President of Sales and Vice President of Global Services. The depth of John’s mobility experience also includes multiple assignments and domestic relocations of his own. He has lived and conducted business around the globe and speaks multiple languages.
