Venue Directory Integration Options: iFrame, Widget, and API

Modified on Thu, 26 Jun at 11:00 AM

This article outlines the three main options for integrating Venue Directory search functionality into your website: iFrame, Widget, and Venue API. Each method offers different levels of customization, technical effort, and user experience. Use this guide to determine which approach best fits your needs.

1. iFrame Integration

Overview:

The iFrame method allows you to embed the full Venue Directory search interface directly within a page on your website. This provides your users with access to the complete search and booking experience, hosted and maintained by Venue Directory.

Key Features: - Simple to implement—just insert an iFrame code snippet into your site. - Minimal technical effort required. - The search interface and functionality are managed externally by Venue Directory. - Customization is limited to the parameters supported by the iFrame; you have little control over the appearance or behavior beyond what the iFrame allows. - The user experience closely matches the Venue Directory portal, but is displayed within your site’s frame.

Best For:
Organizations seeking a quick, low-effort integration with minimal customization needs.

2. Widget Integration

Overview:
The Widget option provides a pre-built Venue Directory search or booking component that can be added to your website. Widgets are designed for easy integration and offer more flexibility than iFrames.

Key Features: - Easy to add to your site using a small code snippet. - More customization options than iFrame, including the ability to match the widget’s appearance to your site’s branding and configure certain search parameters. - Flexible styling and embedding, allowing for a more seamless fit with your website’s design. - Still relatively simple to implement, balancing ease of use with customization.

Best For:
Organizations wanting a branded, customizable search component that integrates smoothly with their website’s look and feel.

3. Venue API Integration

Overview:
The Venue API provides the most advanced and flexible integration option. It allows you to pull venue data directly into your website and build a fully custom search and display interface.

Key Features: - Full control over the user experience and data presentation. - Access to advanced search features, filtering, and sorting. - Suitable for complex integrations and bespoke requirements. - Requires more technical effort and development resources compared to iFrame or Widget options.

Best For:
Organizations with specific requirements for search functionality, design, or data handling, and the technical resources to build a custom solution.

Comparison Table

Option	Technical Effort	Customization	User Experience	Best For
iFrame	Low	Limited	Standard Venue Directory interface within your site	Quick, simple integrations
Widget	Low/Medium	Moderate	Branded, configurable component	Custom look and feel with easy setup
Venue API	High	Extensive	Fully custom interface and features	Bespoke, advanced integrations

Further Documentation

For detailed technical instructions and implementation guidance, please refer to the following documentation:

iFrame and Widget Integration: iFrame instructions Widget instructions
Venue API Integration: Contact your account manager for pricing and further details

Note: The specific features, customization options, and technical requirements for each method are detailed in the provided documentation. If you need further assistance or have specific requirements, please review these resources or contact support for guidance.

Summary

iFrame: Easiest to implement, limited customization.
Widget: More customizable, easy to integrate, fits your branding.
Venue API: Maximum flexibility and control, requires development resources.

Choose the integration method that best aligns with your website goals and technical capabilities.