Google API's for Dummies

Help in basics and getting started

[mortgagemax]

I am hoping that someone can give me a better understanding of Google API's.

From what I gather they automate the bidding process.
-> Is that correct?
-> What else can they do?
-> Where do I start?
-> Is there such a thing as an "API in a box"
-> Do I need a programmer to help with this?

Sidenotes about me:
* very knowledgable with Google AdWords
* have no programming knowledge (except html)

[jtara]

The API basically lets you do everything that you can do in the online user interface, but do it with your own software.

So, you could write your own user interface, if you don't like theirs. Or, you could use it to integrate Adwords with an in-house inventory system.

You COULD use it to "automate the bidding process" but I get the idea that Google doesn't encourage this. Certainly, the API quota system makes this difficult.

There are commercial packages available to do this, but their compliance with the Google API Terms of Service seems in question at this point.

[mortgagemax]

Thank you for your help!

[AdWordsAdvisor]

Mortgagemax, another resource you might want to be aware of is the AdWords API Forum on Groups. It's quite active, with more that 1200 members - all of whom are interested in the same thing you are.

You'll find it here: [groups.google.com...]

AWA

PS - Mods, I think it should be OK to link to this, no? If not, please feel free to delete post. Thanks.