Definition of Terms
9
to use specific code libraries, without the need to alter or modify the code of the
application itself. This is only possible, if syntax and semantics between the interface
and the library correspond (Lipinski, 2012).
Especially in the context of cloud services and cloud computing, APIs convey a
special meaning. Due to the lack of a mutually agreed upon standard for these
services, a company is demanded to find proper APIs to establish a connection
between deployed services (off-premise) and integrated systems (on-premise). In
order to help companies, several so-called Open APIs have been made public.
However these APIs form the basic framework and are still subject to customization
and modification regarding the specific needs of a company (Rouse, 2012).
Enterprise Social Networks
Enterprise Social Networks (ESN) refer to social media platforms targeting business
audiences. An Enterprise Social Network can achieve several objectives: As soon
as the social aspect is linked with business processes, untapped potentials of
shareholders and stakeholders can be leveraged. This happens in the same way,
as it does with public social media platforms: allowing companies to connect with
their employees on a professional level. Another opportunity of Enterprise Social
Networking is the establishment of a collaboration platform, which unites employees
across departments, branches or even countries. Business Intelligence efforts can
be supported through a centralized document management and the option to access
conversations conducted on an Enterprise Social Network platform (Craig, 2013).
Companies often decide to allow the public access to this closed socio-economic
system, where they set up communities. In such communities the general public can
directly interact with the company and discuss about brands, products, or services
(
Butler, Butler, & Chester, 2010, pp. 63-66). Hence an Enterprise Social Network
can influence both the internal environment, as well as the external one. Popular
ESNs are for example: Microsoft Yammer, Cisco Quad, or Salesforce’s Chatter
(
Butler, Butler, & Chester, 2010, pp. 152-153).
