What objects are used to interact with external systems?

The connected system object is indeed a key component for interacting with external systems. This object serves as a bridge that defines how Appian communicates with an external service, which can include databases, web services, or other applications. By configuring a connected system, you specify the connection details, such as the endpoint, credentials, and any authentication methods that may be required.

In practical applications, the connected system object enables you to establish a reliable and secure link between Appian and outside resources, making it essential for integration tasks. It allows for seamless data retrieval and submission, facilitating a smooth exchange of information between Appian and the external systems. This capability is crucial for building robust applications that need to leverage existing data or services outside of the Appian environment.

While the web API and the integration object can also facilitate interactions with external systems, the connected system object is specifically designed for this purpose and is the foundation upon which those interactions are built. The initiate call smart service, on the other hand, is a function that can be used to leverage those connections but does not itself serve as the interface for external systems.