The CATAMA Interface to AAGOnline

CATAMA has a comprehensive interface to AAGOnline (AAG Autopartner), the parts portal for workshops, which allows a direct connection to the spare parts catalogue. This integration is one of more than 26 specialised API connections and uses modern token-based authentication for secure data exchange. It allows workshops to import spare parts and labour times automatically from the AAG catalogue into their jobs.

Key takeaways

• Direct AAGOnline integration: a predefined interface connection to AAG Autopartner as one of the most important supplier APIs
• Automatic parts import: spare parts and labour times are taken straight from the AAG catalogue into jobs
• Secure data transfer: token-based authentication ensures maximum data security
• Greater efficiency: up to 40% higher productivity through automated ordering processes
• Part of a larger network: the AAGOnline connection complements more than 25 further supplier interfaces
• Seamless workflow integration: built directly into quotation and invoice processing
• Scalable architecture: the API-based design allows practically unlimited extension
• Future-proof technology: prepared for AI-supported order optimisation and predictive maintenance

How does the CATAMA AAGOnline interface work?

The CATAMA AAGOnline interface creates a direct data connection between the CATAMA software and the AAG Autopartner portal. This predefined interface connection is one of the most important supplier APIs in the CATAMA system and sits alongside established connections such as Stahlgruber v3 and Wütschner [4][7][8].

How it works technically:

• Token-based authentication for secure data transfer [2]
• An API-based architecture with standardised connection protocols [1]
• Real-time data matching between CATAMA and the AAGOnline catalogue
• Automatic synchronisation of prices, availability and product data

The integration uses modern security standards and ensures that sensitive customer data stays protected throughout the whole transfer process. Workshops can rely on all data transfers complying with current data protection rules.

A common mistake: many businesses forget to update their AAGOnline credentials regularly, which can lead to dropped connections. Check the login details once a month.

What advantages does the AAGOnline integration offer workshops?

Integrating AAGOnline into CATAMA brings measurable efficiency gains for automotive businesses. Companies using CATAMA’s interface integrations can increase their operational efficiency by up to 40% while minimising sources of error at the same time [2].

The concrete advantages at a glance:

• Time saved: automatic import of spare parts eliminates manual data entry
• Current prices: real-time prices straight from the AAG system
• Availability checks: immediate information about stock levels
• Fewer errors: fewer typing mistakes thanks to automated data transfer
• Cost optimisation: transparent price comparisons and an overview of terms

The interface allows workshops to import spare parts and labour times automatically from the AAG catalogue into their jobs [1]. That not only reduces administrative effort but also improves the accuracy of cost calculations.

A rule of thumb: choose the AAGOnline integration if your business regularly handles more than 20 parts orders a week through AAG Autopartner.

You will find more information on similar integrations in our guide CATAMA with Partslink24: fast interface integration for automotive businesses.

How is the AAGOnline interface set up in CATAMA?

The AAGOnline interface is set up through the CATAMA administration menu and requires valid AAG Autopartner credentials. The process is standardised and can be completed in a few steps.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Provide the credentials: AAGOnline user name and API key
2. Activate the interface: in the CATAMA menu under „Interfaces“ → „Suppliers“
3. Test the connection: an automatic check of the data connection
4. Synchronise the catalogue data: the initial import of the product data
5. Configure user rights: deciding which staff have access

Technical requirements:

• An active AAGOnline account with API authorisation
• A stable internet connection for real-time data matching
• CATAMA Professional, Enterprise or Unlimited edition [7][8]

The integration into the CATAMA billing program guarantees secure data exchange across all connected interfaces [2]. Once setup is complete, the AAGOnline functions are immediately available in the familiar CATAMA user interface.

A common stumbling block: incomplete API authorisations at AAGOnline can cause partial loss of function. Make sure your AAG account is enabled for API access.

For a comprehensive overview of all the available integrations, visit our interfaces overview.

Which CATAMA editions support the AAGOnline interface?

The AAGOnline interface is available in the higher CATAMA editions and is aimed at professional workshop businesses with more advanced integration needs. Not every CATAMA version offers this functionality.

How does AAGOnline fit into the CATAMA workflow?

The AAGOnline integration slots seamlessly into existing CATAMA workflows and extends the functionality from creating quotations through to processing invoices. The interface is available in several modules and optimises a range of business processes.

Integration into CATAMA modules:

• Quotation: direct access to the AAG catalogue while costing
• Job processing: automatic import of parts and labour times
• Ordering: seamless transfer of orders to AAGOnline [9] • Inventory management: synchronisation of stock levels and prices
• Invoicing: automatic transfer of current terms

Users can access the AAGOnline catalogue directly while processing a job, without having to leave the CATAMA system. That reduces media breaks and considerably speeds up the whole workflow.

Workflow optimisation:

1. Vehicle identification through an HSN/TSN lookup
2. Parts catalogue access directly from the job
3. Price comparison with other integrated suppliers
4. Automatic ordering when the job is approved
5. Delivery status monitoring in real time

To make the most of all the workflow features, it is worth combining it with other CATAMA interfaces such as Stakis and Stahlgruber.

Which other supplier interfaces complement AAGOnline?

CATAMA offers a comprehensive network of more than 26 specialised API integrations, with AAGOnline positioned as part of a larger ecosystem of supplier and e-commerce connections [2]. This variety allows workshops to diversify their procurement strategies.

Important complementary interfaces:

• Partslink24: a large parts network with more than 1,000 suppliers
• WMKAT: a specialist for repair costs and spare parts
• RepDoc: repair guides and labour times
• Stahlgruber v3: a traditional wholesaler with a comprehensive range
• WebParts: the Mercedes-Benz genuine parts portal [1]

The system’s API-based architecture allows practically unlimited extension, because most parts suppliers use similar API connection standards [1]. That makes CATAMA future-proof for new supplier partnerships.

Strategic advantages of multi-supplier integration:

• Price comparisons in real time between different providers
• Availability checks across several sources at once
• Reduced risk through supplier diversification
• Better terms through automatic best-price determination

Coming generations of the CATAMA interfaces will make increasing use of artificial intelligence for order optimisation and predictive maintenance needs [2].

FAQ

Is the AAGOnline interface available in every CATAMA version?
No, the AAGOnline integration is only available in the Professional, Enterprise and Unlimited editions. The Basic version does not support this interface.

What does the AAGOnline integration cost?
Use of the interface is included in the relevant CATAMA editions. Additional costs can only arise at AAGOnline itself, for API access.

Can prices be updated automatically?
Yes, the interface synchronises prices and availability with the AAGOnline system in real time, so current terms are always available.

How secure is the data transfer?
The integration uses token-based authentication and meets current data protection standards. All transfers are encrypted and GDPR-compliant.

Can the interface be combined with other suppliers?
Yes, AAGOnline can easily be combined with more than 25 other supplier interfaces in CATAMA, which makes price comparisons and availability checks possible.

What happens if there are connection problems?
CATAMA caches catalogue data locally, so work can continue even during temporary interruptions. If an outage lasts longer, the credentials should be checked.

Are orders transmitted automatically?
Orders can be transmitted to AAGOnline automatically if this is activated in the settings. Alternatively, manual approval is also possible.

Does the interface support every AAGOnline function?
The CATAMA integration covers the most important functions: catalogue access, price enquiries, availability checks and order transmission. Special AAGOnline features can be used directly in the portal.

Is training required in order to use it?
The integration is built intuitively into the CATAMA user interface. A short briefing from CATAMA support is usually enough.

Can individual terms be taken into account?
Yes, the interface automatically applies the individual prices and discount terms stored for your AAGOnline account.

Are there limits on the number of enquiries?
Any API limits are set by AAGOnline. CATAMA optimises the enquiries automatically to ensure efficient use.

Conclusion

CATAMA has a comprehensive interface to AAGOnline (AAG Autopartner), the parts portal for workshops, which forms an integral part of a wider API network of more than 26 supplier connections. This integration allows automotive businesses to increase their operational efficiency by up to 40% while automated processes minimise sources of error at the same time.

The main advantages include the automatic import of spare parts and labour times straight from the AAG catalogue, real-time price matching and secure data transfer through token-based authentication. Its seamless integration into existing CATAMA workflows – from creating a quotation through to processing the invoice – makes this interface a valuable tool for modern workshop businesses.

Next steps:

1. Check your CATAMA edition: make sure you are using Professional, Enterprise or Unlimited
2. Prepare your AAGOnline access: obtain the necessary API credentials
3. Activate the integration: contact CATAMA support to set it up
4. Train your team: introduce your staff to the new workflow options
5. Evaluate further interfaces: look at additional supplier integrations for the best procurement strategy

The investment in this interface technology quickly pays for itself through reduced administrative effort, better cost calculations and optimised procurement processes. With its forward-looking API architecture you are well equipped for the digital transformation of your workshop business.

References

[1] Interfaces – catama-software.de
[2] Interfaces of the CATAMA Software – catama-software.de
[4] Products – catama-software.de
[7] CATAMA Enterprise Suite – catama-software.de
[8] CATAMA Unlimited: Software and Support, Tailor-Made – catama-software.de
[9] Ordering – catama-software.de