Seccl launches API training for advisers

The free course, conducted virtually, is designed for advisers, paraplanners, operations staff and administrators who are looking to understand the basics of APIs.

It will teach the basic coding skills required to extract and input data using any open API.

The skills can be put to use for example to build reporting dashboards or update client records.

Annabel Melvin, account executive at Seccl and the course leader, said: "While APIs have become a bit of a buzzword in the industry, many people have been telling us that they would love to really understand what they are and how they work. 

“Anyone who can query an API can quickly and easily extract any bit of data that an API-driven system holds, in real time - and so by teaching people the basics, we hope to empower them to run slicker, more data-led and more efficient businesses." 

The course follows an initial private trial of the academy which was conducted in February and involved advisers, operations staff and administrators.

One of the attendees, Andy Weston, managing director of IronBright Investment Management, said the academy provided an ideal opportunity to gain insight into the growing industry trend, while gaining exposure to the technology.

He added: "Being able to use and manipulate APIs means I can now get my hands on valuable information that would have previously been out of reach - and has helped me gain more confidence when working with other third-parties and their integration.

"It's definitely worthwhile for anyone who wants to get the most out of the technology that's available in the market." 

The course will take place at the end of July and in August.

It will consist of four 90-minute online classes, each supported by a range of tasks designed to be completed by participants in their own time.

No prior knowledge is required, though an aptitude for Excel might prove a useful starting point, Seccl said.

sally.hickey@ft.com