What is a key benefit of using an API in software systems?

Using an API in software systems primarily enhances integration capabilities, which is a key benefit. APIs facilitate communication between different software applications by providing a set of rules and protocols that enable them to interact seamlessly. This allows disparate systems to work together, share data, and function as a cohesive unit, improving overall efficiency and flexibility.

With enhanced integration capabilities, businesses can rapidly connect new systems and services, enabling them to leverage existing functionalities without having to build everything from scratch. This accelerates the development of applications and services, promotes innovation, and allows for easier updates and maintenance.

The other options, while potentially related to operational improvements, do not capture the primary function and benefit of APIs as effectively. For instance, while APIs might lead to decreased operational costs indirectly by streamlining processes, that is not their main purpose. Increased data redundancy is generally considered a drawback in system design, as it can lead to inconsistencies and inefficiencies. Improved manual processes is not typically associated with APIs, which are designed to automate and improve interactions between systems rather than enhance manual workflows.