DAL
The Digital Access Layer (DAL) is a communications stream used by computers attached to a network. Computers can request/send information needed to link systems together automatically. This is also known as an Application Program Interface (API) request. Support Agents can also make use of this system to retrieve information to help solve issues for our customers. DAL communications can be individually written to access specific information that may not be easily available through any other means. The tool most useful for DAL communications is called Postman.
Postman Overview, Installation, & Setup
Postman enables you to create and send API requests. Send a request to an endpoint, retrieve data from a data source, or test an API's functionality. You don't need to enter commands in a terminal or write any code. Create a new request and select Send, and the API response appears right inside Postman. Postman is a Windows and Mac program that is available from the IT4U App Shop:
After IT has installed Postman, open it and import using the link (URL) below:
Postman is now setup to use for some support searches.
Use Postman to find a Job from a Contract ID Number
When a customer sends in a cancellation form, the only preprinted identification is the Contract ID Number. While it might e difficult to read the Home Owner’s (HO) name, the Contract ID can identify the job.
Before starting Postman
Login to any Org on Engine
After starting Postman
open the Support DAL collection
click on “Org/Addr/Name by Contact #”
copy/paste the Contract ID # into the Value
click the Send button to send the request
Use Postman to find an Org/Address/Homeowner from a …
There are a number of items in the Support DAL collection that are used to find a “Org/Addr/Name” (Organization/Address/Homeowner Name) using a number of different identifiers. They are used just like the example above, except with different Keys/Values. Follow the example (above), providing the requested values. More search items will be added to the collection as those items are researched & tested.
Video Instruction on the DAL
Kira met with Rick & Rob to further discuss the DAL: