If you’ve been using the Call API action in Glide and noticed that it seems to cache data, you’re not alone. Many users have experienced this issue, leading to confusion and frustration. However, it’s important to understand that the problem doesn’t lie with the Call API action itself, but rather with the use of the JSON Template or JSON Object column within the Call API action.
Understanding the Issue
When integrating APIs with Glide, you might use JSON objects to structure and send data. Glide allows you to create JSON objects using JSON Template or JSON Object columns. These columns are then used in the Call API action to send data to an external service. The problem arises when these JSON object columns retain old data values even after the data has been fully cleared or updated.
The Cause of the Issue
The underlying issue is that the JSON Template or JSON Object column retains old values when passed into the Call API action, resulting in incorrect data being sent in API calls. This can cause significant issues, particularly when the API requires dynamic or updated data.
A Simple Workaround
Fortunately, there is a straightforward workaround to ensure your API calls reflect the most current data:
1. Avoid Using JSON Object Columns Directly: Instead of using the JSON Template or JSON Object columns directly in your Call API action, create the JSON object within a button action itself.
2. Write to a Basic Column: Construct the JSON object in the button action and write it to a basic column. This approach ensures that the JSON object is dynamically created and updated every time the button is pressed, thus preventing the retention of old data values.
Implementation Example
Here’s how you can implement this workaround:
1. Create a Basic Column: Add a basic text column to your data table to store the JSON object.
2. Construct JSON in Button Action: Use the button action to construct the JSON object dynamically within the action itself.
3. Write to Basic Column: Write the constructed JSON object to the basic text column.
4. Use Basic Column in Call API Action: Reference the basic text column in your Call API action instead of the JSON Template or JSON Object column.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your API calls always use the most current data, eliminating the issue of cached data.