Options for Getting External Data

There are several options to get external data into SFMC. One approach is to use the Marketing Cloud Connector, which is an out-of-the-box method for getting data in. This connector allows you to build custom solutions and integrate with external APIs.

Another option is to use the Salesforce Connector to get external data into Salesforce Core and then funnel it down to SFMC. This approach is recommended if you are already using Salesforce Core.

In addition to these options, Mulesoft is another option for integrating external data, and Einstein also has product catalogs that can be used for inventory assessments.

Technical Implementation

To implement this solution, you can use AMPScript or SSJS to make API calls to the external data source. For example, you can use the HTTPRequest function in AMPScript to make a GET request to the API.

example.amp

%%[ var @url = "https://api.example.com/stocklevels" var @response = HTTPRequest(@url, "GET") ]%%

Alternatively, you can use the Salesforce Connector to get external data into Salesforce Core and then use the data in SFMC.

The root cause of the problem is the need to get external data in real-time, which requires integrating with external APIs or using connectors to get data into SFMC.

Best Practices

To get the most out of using external data in SFMC, follow these best practices:

Checklist

• Use the Marketing Cloud Connector for out-of-the-box integration with external data sources
• Use AMPScript or SSJS to make API calls to external data sources
• Use the Salesforce Connector to get external data into Salesforce Core and then funnel it down to SFMC
• Consider using Mulesoft for integrating external data
• Use Einstein product catalogs for inventory assessments

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to get external data into SFMC?

The best way to get external data into SFMC is to use the Marketing Cloud Connector or the Salesforce Connector to get data into Salesforce Core and then funnel it down to SFMC.

Can I use AMPScript or SSJS to make API calls to external data sources?

Yes, you can use AMPScript or SSJS to make API calls to external data sources.

What are the performance implications of using AMPScript or SSJS to make API calls?

Using AMPScript or SSJS to make API calls can have performance implications for bulk sends, so it’s recommended to use this approach for transactional messages only.

Can I use Mulesoft to integrate external data?

Yes, Mulesoft is another option for integrating external data into SFMC.