Seamless ServiceNow Integrations: Part 2 Inbound Integrations

[madelapostol-de]

Understanding Inbound Integration Options in ServiceNow

ServiceNow offers multiple options for inbound integrations, allowing external systems to send data into the platform efficiently. The most commonly used methods include the Table API, Import Set API, and Scripted REST APIs. Each option serves different use cases, providing flexibility for various integration needs.

1. Table API

The Table API enables external systems to perform CRUD (Create, Read, Update, Delete) operations on ServiceNow tables. It is part of ServiceNow’s REST API framework and provides direct access to table records via standardized endpoints.

Key Features:

• Supports real-time data integration for record-level operations.
• Enforces security controls, such as Access Control Lists (ACLs).
• Ideal for scenarios requiring quick access to or updates on ServiceNow tables.

Limitations:

• Limited data transformation capabilities. For instance, if a Reference field value does not match an existing record in ServiceNow, it will be set to empty.
• Example: If Microsoft Entra ID pushes user Company data to the User [sys_user] table, but the corresponding value does not exist in the Company [core_company] table, the field will remain empty. Ensuring data consistency between systems is essential.
• Best suited for structured and predictable data inputs.

    2.  Import Set API

The Import Set API is designed for bulk data imports. Incoming data is first stored in staging tables before being processed into target tables through transformation maps.

Key Features:

• Optimized for batch data uploads.
• Supports data validation and transformation.
• Suitable for migrating large datasets or handling periodic imports.

Limitations:

• Requires preconfigured staging tables and transformation maps.
• More complex setup compared to the Table API.
• Large datasets may require splitting into smaller batches to prevent import errors.

     3. Scripted REST APIs

Scripted REST APIs allow developers to define custom endpoints with specific logic, enabling more flexible and tailored integrations.

Key Features:

• Fully customizable to handle complex business logic.
• Allows dynamic data manipulation, validation, and custom responses.
• Best for process-driven integrations requiring specialized workflows.

Limitations:

• Requires scripting expertise.
• Maintenance can be more complex compared to other integration methods.

Choosing the Right Integration Option

• Use the Table API for direct, record-level integrations with minimal data manipulation.
• Choose the Import Set API for bulk data imports that require transformation and validation.
• Leverage Scripted REST APIs for custom workflows and complex integrations.

By understanding these integration options, organizations can implement solutions that align with their data management and business process needs.

[kamal_s]

Nice Article! Also, check out External Triggers to build Inbound Integrations which comes equipped with many OOTB triggers and an ability to build your own triggers inside Workflow Studio in NO CODE LOW CODE Fashion! Here

[madelapostol-de]

Thanks @kamal_s I can write a follow up article on this new feature 🙂