What characterizes synchronous integration processes?

Synchronous integration processes are defined by the behavior that requires a user or system to wait for a response before continuing with further actions. This blocking behavior means that the user or application cannot proceed until the integration process is completed and a response is received.

This characteristic is particularly important in scenarios where immediate feedback is critical, such as when a user submits a form and expects confirmation of success or failure before proceeding to the next task. This style of integration is commonly used in real-time applications where the timing of data exchange is crucial, and the logical flow must be maintained throughout the interaction.

In contrast, the other options describe aspects not inherent to synchronous integration. Immediate data submissions without waiting characterize asynchronous integration, where requests are sent and processed in the background without holding up the user. Bulk processing of responses is more aligned with batch processing techniques rather than the immediate interaction model of synchronous systems. Finally, while synchronous integrations can utilize external APIs, they are not exclusively defined by that aspect. Synchronous integration can happen internally within systems as well.