What is a Connector?
A connector is a prebuilt software link that connects two specific systems and automates the data exchange between them. In e-commerce, a connector links your PIM system to your online store or a marketplace, for example. You no longer have to export and import product data manually, and your team doesn't have to build a custom interface from scratch.
How does a Connector work?
A connector accesses data through the standard interfaces (APIs) of both systems. It reads information from the source system, translates it into the structure of the target system via mapping, and transfers it there. Typical functions include:
- Mapping: Fields, attributes, and categories are assigned to the matching structures in the target system.
- Synchronization: Data is transferred via full or delta exports. Delta exports only send the changes to the target system.
- Automation: Scheduled processes, for example via cron jobs, keep data up to date in both systems.
Connector vs. API vs. Middleware – the Differences
These three terms often come up together, but they describe different levels of system integration:
| Term | What it is | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| API | Technical interface of a single system | Foundation that lets other software access its data |
| Connector | Ready-made link between two specific systems based on their APIs | e.g., PIM → online store or PIM → marketplace integration |
| Middleware | Central integration layer for many systems | Entire system landscape of ERP, PIM, store, and marketplaces |
A connector is the direct link between two systems. Middleware, by contrast, bundles many of these connections in one central place. In practice, connectors often run on middleware and use its monitoring and error handling.
Typical Connectors in E-Commerce
Connectors are used wherever two systems regularly need the same data:
- PIM → online store: Product data, variants, and images flow automatically into store systems like Shopware.
- PIM → marketplaces: Product information is sent to platforms like Tradebyte and distributed to marketplaces from there.
- PIM → CMS: Product data appears directly on websites or landing pages.
- ERP ↔ store: Inventory, prices, and orders are synchronized between your ERP system and your store.
Many software vendors offer connectors in their own marketplaces, such as the Akeneo App Store.
Connectors from EIKONA Media
EIKONA Media develops its own connectors for Akeneo PIM. The Akeneo Shopware Connector transfers your product data to Shopware 6 automatically. The Akeneo Tradebyte Connector distributes your products to marketplaces via Tradebyte. The Akeneo Contao Connector brings product data to your website. All connectors offer a configurable mapping interface. For more complex requirements involving many systems, there is the OSKAR Middleware.
Conclusion
Connectors as the direct Link between your Systems
A connector is the fastest way to link two systems reliably without developing a custom interface. It keeps product data up to date across all channels, reduces manual work, and shortens your time-to-market. As your system landscape grows, you can combine connectors with middleware. Want to find out which connector fits your systems?