Idempotency (integrations)
Quick answer
The property whereby processing the same message repeatedly produces the same result, with no duplicate effects.
Key takeaways
- Idempotency keys - a unique identifier per message
- Deduplication - checking whether the message was already processed
- Idempotent operations - 'set to X' instead of 'add X'
What idempotency is
Idempotency is the property of an operation to produce the same result no matter how many times it runs. In integrations, it means that if the same message (order, invoice, ASN) arrives twice, the system processes it only once - with no duplicates.
Why it's critical
In distributed systems, messages can repeat: retry after timeout, a webhook sent twice, reprocessing after an error. Without idempotency, you get duplicate orders, duplicate invoices, incorrectly decremented stock.
How it's implemented
- Idempotency keys - a unique identifier per message
- Deduplication - checking whether the message was already processed
- Idempotent operations - 'set to X' instead of 'add X'
How CRMconnect helps
CRMconnect integrations use idempotency keys and deduplication, so retries and repeated webhooks don't create duplicate orders or invoices - a foundation for safe automation at high volume.
Real-world example
An order webhook was sent twice on a timeout, creating duplicate orders in the ERP. With CRMconnect idempotency keys, the second processing is recognised and ignored, removing duplicates with no manual intervention.
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Frequently asked
Why do messages repeat in integrations?+
Because of retries after timeouts, webhooks delivered multiple times, or reprocessing after errors. It's normal behaviour in distributed systems - which is why idempotency is essential.
How does idempotency prevent duplicates?+
Each message carries a unique key; on re-receipt, the system checks whether the key was already processed and, if so, ignores the message - the result stays the same, with no duplicate effects.
Where CRMconnect fits
Related terms
REST API
The standard HTTP integration interface for data exchange between systems.
TechnologyWebhook
HTTP push notification sent automatically on event - the opposite of "polling".
TechnologyIntegration middleware
The intermediate software layer that connects systems and translates data between them, decoupling them from each other.
TechnologyiPaaS (Integration Platform as a Service)
A cloud platform that connects applications and data via connectors, flows and transformations managed centrally.