Systems need more than a working connection. Their formats, identifiers, operations and assumptions must align sufficiently for each side to interpret requests and results correctly.
Shared interfaces and clear definitions can reduce integration work, but apparent compatibility still needs checking. Two systems can accept similar messages while assigning different meanings to the same field.
ELI5
Think of different tools understanding the same instructions well enough to work together.
For example, two agent clients might load the same skill package while still supporting different optional features.
Is interoperability the same as connecting an API?
No. A connection is one part; successful use also depends on compatible data meanings and supported behavior.
Can systems interoperate without being identical?
Yes. Defined interfaces or translations can bridge differences while preserving the information needed for the task.
