CATAMA offers a direct API interface to Glavista for spare parts research and price enquiries. This integration allows workshops to search for articles and read them into jobs straight from the job editor, with no need to switch between different systems.
Key takeaways
• Direct integration: the CATAMA software API for Glavista connects the two systems seamlessly
• Time saved: spare parts can be searched for and taken over directly in the job editor
• Current prices: price enquiries run in real time against the Glavista database
• Easy to use: no additional programs or browser tabs required
• Automatic import: articles are transferred with all the relevant data
• Fewer errors: manual entry is kept to a minimum
• Better costing: current spare parts prices are available immediately
What is the Glavista interface in CATAMA?
The Glavista interface is an API connection between the CATAMA workshop software and the Glavista spare parts database. This connection allows workshops to access Glavista’s extensive spare parts database directly from within CATAMA.
Glavista is a leading platform for spare parts research in the automotive sector. The database contains millions of spare parts from various manufacturers, with current prices and availability information.
The CATAMA software API for Glavista works as a bridge between the two systems. Workshop staff can:
- Search for spare parts by vehicle data
- Compare prices from different suppliers
- Transfer articles directly into jobs
- Check availability
This integration is particularly valuable for workshops that work with a wide range of spare parts every day and need fast, reliable price information.
How does the CATAMA software API for Glavista work?
The Glavista interface is integrated directly into the CATAMA job editor. Workshop staff can work without additional software or browser tabs.
The process is simple:
- Open the job: open a new or existing job in the CATAMA job editor
- Start the Glavista search: call up Glavista through the integrated search function
- Use the vehicle data: the vehicle data already stored in the job is taken over automatically
- Search for spare parts: look for suitable parts and compare prices
- Transfer the articles: read the articles you want into the job with a single click
Technical details:
- The API connection runs over secure HTTPS protocols
- Data is retrieved in real time
- No local storage of sensitive price information
- Automatic updating when prices change
The CATAMA interfaces to suppliers and e-commerce offer similar functionality for other providers, but the Glavista integration stands out for its depth and ease of use.
What advantages does the Glavista interface offer?
The CATAMA software API for Glavista brings concrete benefits to day-to-day workshop life. Workshops save time and make fewer mistakes when sourcing spare parts.
The main advantages at a glance:
⏰ Time saved
- No manual searching in separate systems
- Direct access from the job editor
- Automatic data transfer
💰 Better pricing
- Current prices in real time
- Comparison of different suppliers
- Transparent cost calculations
🔍 Comprehensive search
- Millions of spare parts available
- Searching by various criteria
- Alternative parts and manufacturers
✅ Fewer errors
- Automatic data transfer prevents typing errors
- Correct article numbers and descriptions
- Parts that fit the vehicle in question
The integration works in a similar way to other CATAMA interfaces, such as the interface to Stakis and Stahlgruber, but offers functions optimised specifically for the Glavista database.
Setting up and configuring the Glavista API
The Glavista interface is set up through the CATAMA system settings. The process is straightforward and can be carried out by any administrator.
Step-by-step instructions:
- Set up Glavista access
- Registration with Glavista is required
- Request API credentials
- Clarify the contractual arrangements
- Configure CATAMA
- Go to the system settings
- Open the „Interfaces“ section
- Enter the Glavista API data
- Test the connection
- Run a test search
- Check the data transfer
- Resolve any error messages
- Assign user rights
- Grant staff access
- Define search permissions
- Provide training
Important configuration options:
- Define default suppliers
- Assign price groups
- Set up search filters
- Activate automatic updates
The CATAMA Professional software supports the Glavista integration in every version. Similar integrations such as the WMKAT interface follow the same setup principle.
Practical use in day-to-day workshop life
The CATAMA software API for Glavista shows its strengths above all in everyday workshop operations. Staff can work more efficiently and serve customers faster.
Typical scenarios:
Scenario 1: an estimate for a repair
- The vehicle is accepted for repair
- The defective parts are identified
- A direct price enquiry through Glavista
- An estimate based on current prices
Scenario 2: maintenance work
- Regular servicing to the manufacturer’s specifications
- Searching for the necessary parts through Glavista
- Comparing different quality levels
- Choosing the best value for money
Scenario 3: an emergency repair
- A quick availability check
- Finding alternative suppliers
- Arranging express deliveries
- Keeping the customer informed promptly
Best practice for using it:
- Regular training for staff
- Defining standard search terms
- Creating favourites lists
- Keeping an eye on price developments
The integration works particularly well in combination with other CATAMA features such as the workshop planner and automotive inventory management.
A comparison with other spare parts interfaces
CATAMA offers various interfaces for sourcing spare parts. The Glavista interface has particular characteristics that set it apart from other providers.
| Feature | Glavista API | Stakis/Stahlgruber | WMKAT | Partslink24 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of articles | Very high | High | Medium | High |
| Price currency | Real time | Daily | Daily | Real time |
| Search speed | Fast | Very fast | Medium | Fast |
| Range of manufacturers | Very high | High | Specialised | High |
| Integration | Complete | Complete | Complete | Complete |
When to choose Glavista:
- You need a wide range of articles
- You want to compare different manufacturers
- Current prices matter
- You want comprehensive search functions
They can be used in combination:
Workshops can use several interfaces in parallel. The Partslink24 integration, for example, complements the Glavista search with further suppliers.
Every interface has its strengths. The Glavista API scores particularly well on the range of articles and the search options.
Cost and availability
The Glavista interface is available in several CATAMA editions. The cost depends on the software edition chosen and on the Glavista contract.
CATAMA editions with Glavista support:
- CATAMA Enterprise: full functionality
- CATAMA Unlimited: individual customisation
Cost structure:
- The CATAMA software licence (monthly)
- Glavista access (as agreed)
- No additional API fees
- Support included
Availability:
- Immediately after the contract is concluded
- No waiting times for the setup
- The interface is available 24/7
- Regular updates included
The CATAMA pricing is transparent and predictable. Workshops can calculate the cost precisely and benefit from volume discounts.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is the Glavista interface available in every CATAMA edition?
The Glavista interface is included in the Professional, Enterprise and Unlimited editions of CATAMA. The Basic edition does not support this integration.
How quickly are search results available?
Searches through the CATAMA software API for Glavista are usually answered within 1-3 seconds. The speed depends on the internet connection and on how complex the search is.
Can several members of staff access Glavista at the same time?
Yes, the API supports several simultaneous accesses. The number depends on the Glavista contract. Most workshops can make an unlimited number of enquiries.
What happens if the internet goes down?
If there are connection problems, no new searches can be made. Data already loaded remains available in CATAMA. Once the connection is restored, everything works normally again.
Are the prices binding?
The prices retrieved through Glavista are guide prices. Binding prices are only confirmed when the order is placed. Prices may change.
How are updates to the interface installed?
Updates are applied automatically through the CATAMA cloud infrastructure. Workshops do not have to install or configure anything manually.
Can the interface be deactivated?
Yes, the Glavista integration can be deactivated at any time in the CATAMA settings. Data already imported is retained.
Is training available?
CATAMA offers training for all its interfaces. It can be delivered online. CATAMA support will help with any questions.
Conclusion
The Glavista interface makes CATAMA an even more powerful workshop software. The API integration allows workshops to work more efficiently and produce better estimates.
The main advantages in summary:
- Direct integration into the job editor
- Millions of spare parts available
- Current prices in real time
- Easy to use with no additional software
- Fewer errors thanks to automatic data transfer
The CATAMA software API for Glavista is particularly valuable for workshops that work with a wide range of spare parts every day. The time saved and the improved accuracy quickly justify the investment.
Next steps:
- Apply for Glavista access
- Check or upgrade your CATAMA edition
- Set up and test the integration
- Train your staff
- Enjoy the benefits
With the Glavista integration, the CATAMA software family offers a future-proof solution for modern workshops. The combination of proven workshop software and innovative API technology sets new standards in the industry.
References
[2] Automotive Billing Software 2026: The Complete Guide for Workshops – catama-software.de
[4] Release Update v26.6 – catama-software.de
[9] CATAMA Software: The Cloud-Based Automotive Invoicing Program – catama-software.de
