Types of SaaS Integrations
Different integration types require different levels of NDA protection. The deeper the integration, the more sensitive information is typically exchanged.
API-to-API Integration
Direct platform connections via REST, GraphQL, or webhooks. Exposes endpoints, auth methods, and data schemas.
Marketplace Listing
App stores, plugin directories, or integration marketplaces. Involves review of app functionality and compliance.
Embedded SDK/Widget
Embedding your functionality in partner's product. Shares frontend code, styling, and user experience patterns.
Data Sync Integration
Bi-directional data synchronization. Involves data mapping, transformation logic, and sync protocols.
SSO/Identity Integration
Single sign-on via SAML, OAuth, or OIDC. Shares identity architecture and security configurations.
AI/ML Pipeline
Integrating AI services or sharing training data. Involves model endpoints, inference APIs, and data privacy.
Integration Partnership Lifecycle
NDAs typically cover the evaluation and development phases. Additional agreements (API Terms, Partnership Agreement) govern production use.
Discovery
Initial discussions, use case evaluation
NDA Signed
Confidentiality in place
Sandbox Access
API docs, test credentials
Development
Building the integration
Production
Go-live + ongoing terms
Essential SaaS Integration NDA Clauses
Platform Architecture
Protects technical details about your SaaS architecture, including multi-tenancy design and infrastructure.
Capacity & Limits
Rate limits, quotas, and capacity information reveal business constraints and pricing strategy.
Customer Data Handling
Defines how customer data may flow between platforms during integration.
Roadmap Confidentiality
Protects future feature plans shared during integration planning.
Pricing Information
Partner pricing, volume discounts, and revenue share terms are highly sensitive.
Security Configurations
Authentication methods, encryption details, and security architecture.
Data Handling in SaaS Integrations
Customer Data Protection
- Define what customer data will be accessed
- Specify data retention and deletion requirements
- Require DPA in addition to NDA for PII
- Prohibit data mining for competitive purposes
- Define breach notification procedures
Platform Data Protection
- API usage analytics and patterns
- Error rates and performance metrics
- Feature usage and adoption data
- Infrastructure and scaling information
- Security incident information
DPA Requirements
If customer personal data will flow between platforms, you likely need a Data Processing Agreement (DPA) in addition to the NDA. The NDA protects confidentiality; the DPA governs GDPR/CCPA compliance. See your privacy counsel for specific requirements.
Information Sensitivity Matrix
| Information Type | Sensitivity | Recommended Protection |
|---|---|---|
| Public API documentation | Low | Standard NDA or none |
| Sandbox API credentials | Medium | NDA + credential agreement |
| Production API keys | High | NDA + credential agreement + access controls |
| Rate limits and quotas | Medium | Standard NDA with business info protection |
| Customer data access | High | NDA + DPA + security requirements |
| Internal architecture docs | High | Strong NDA + limited distribution |
| Pricing and revenue terms | High | Strong NDA + need-to-know restriction |
| Product roadmap | High | NDA + time-based expiration |
Sandbox vs. Production Access
Many integrations start with sandbox access under an NDA, then require additional agreements (API Terms of Service, Partnership Agreement) for production access. Structure your NDA to cover the evaluation phase, with clear provisions for transitioning to production agreements. See our API Access NDA for sandbox-specific provisions.
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