A Quick Intro
For those who don’t know what an API is, let’s start with a quick explanation. API Stands for “Application Programming Interface.” An API is a set of commands, functions, protocols, and objects that programmers can use to create software or interact with an external system. It provides developers with standard commands for performing common operations. As a result, they are able to avoid having to write the code from scratch (techterms.com).
House Everything in One Place
Campuses are often hesitant about launching their own mobile app because they already have existing applications or technology that the students are currently using. With Hangry’s API we are able to incorporate all existing tech under one roof. Think of it like the Facebook app and the Messenger app; similarly our API would allow other campus tech to live in your mobile app. The glue holding it together is the Loyalty Program.
Integrating Hangry’s Loyalty Program
With our API, we are able to take any existing campus tech and incorporate it into our loyalty program. This works by adding points to a user’s profile every time they use this existing tech. Thus, it doesn’t matter what system the campus is running on, or what technology is being used. The REST API allows us to work with any different programming language or system—flexibility is the name of the game. Certainly we recognize every campus is unique and has different technology stacks. As a result, the campus is able to kick the loyalty points over to our system so all campus-wide loyalty is housed in one place.
Need an Example?
Let’s say your campus currently has a parking app. Students are able to book spots on the mobile app, check availability etc. Therefore, that parking app can use our API on the backend to send us the user ID and transaction amount, and we will apply loyalty points to that account.
Your Options are Endless
As the campus grows with their mobile strategy, those points can eventually be used in broader contexts. What do we mean by this? Well, campuses can essentially start applying points where ever they see fit in order to drive behavior. Allocate points for retail locations or the book store; it doesn’t matter what system is being used. The campus simply kicks over the points on our API back end, and then we can apply those points to any specific user ID.
Above all, you control all the loyalty points and determine how these points are assigned. Redemption requirements are also decided by your mobile ordering team. Build your own rewards store filled with campus merchandise, tickets, coupons, and gift cards, etc. Furthermore, boost marketing and provide on-campus incentives for your students by using this strategy. Our goal is to provide the ultimate flexibility for your campus allowing you to essentially assign points anywhere.
Your App. Your Brand.
Check out our other loyalty blogs here: