> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.platform.pink/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Integration Methods

> Compare API and EDI integration methods for connecting your systems to Platform Pink

`platform.pink` is designed to create seamless, digital connections between Buyers (restaurateurs) and Sellers (merchants, producers), streamlining data exchange for processes like ordering, catalog management, and invoicing.

This page outlines the primary technical methods available for integrating your systems with `platform.pink` to enable this automated data flow.

<Warning>
  **We strongly recommend using our API integration over EDI connectors.** The
  API provides real-time data exchange, better error handling, and simplified
  maintenance. It follows the "One-to-all" principle - integrate once with
  Platform Pink and instantly connect with all partners in our network. EDI is
  only recommended for organizations that have significant existing EDI
  infrastructure and cannot migrate to modern API-based solutions.
</Warning>

## Connection Methods Overview

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="API Integration" icon="code" href="/api" horizontal={true} />

  <Card title="EDI Connectors" icon="arrow-right-arrow-left" href="/integration/edi" horizontal={true} />
</CardGroup>

## Detailed Comparison

| Feature            | API Integration                  | EDI Connectors                               |
| ------------------ | -------------------------------- | -------------------------------------------- |
| **Architecture**   | Modern REST API with JSON        | Traditional Edifact data exchange            |
| **Implementation** | Single integration, connect once | Point-to-point connections might be required |
| **Real-time**      | ✅ Yes, instant data exchange     | ❌ Batch processing only                      |
| **Flexibility**    | High - adaptable workflows       | Limited - rigid standards                    |
| **Best For**       | Modern systems, new integrations | Legacy EDI infrastructure                    |
| **Recommendation** | ⭐ **Primary choice**             | Bridge for legacy systems                    |