● Reckoneerhow it works
Reckoneer / Prerequisite
PrerequisitePrerequisiteOperator

Dev Dashboard app

Reckoneer communicates with Shopify via the Admin API. To do this, it needs credentials — specifically an access token — that prove it has permission to read and write to the store.

This is done by installing a custom Shopify app on the store. You create the app in the Shopify Partner Dashboard (or directly in the store's admin under Apps > Develop apps), grant it the required API scopes, and install it. Shopify then issues an access token.

That token is entered into Reckoneer during the intake step. Without it, no API calls can be made — themes cannot be pushed, products cannot be read, nothing can happen.

Terms
Shopify Admin API

A REST and GraphQL API provided by Shopify that allows authorized applications to read and modify store data — products, themes, pages, metafields, orders, and more.

AnalogyA formal service entrance to the store. The front door is for customers. The Admin API is the loading dock — authorized, structured access for moving large amounts of goods (data) in and out.
OriginAPI: acronym for Application Programming Interface. Interface: from Latin 'inter' (between) + 'facies' (face). A structured surface between two systems.
Access token

A secret string issued by Shopify when a custom app is installed. Included in every API request as proof of authorization. Treat it like a password — never expose it publicly.

AnalogyA keycard for the loading dock. Anyone with the card can open the door. If it's stolen, they can too — which is why it's kept secret and can be revoked.
OriginToken: from Old English 'tacen' (sign, symbol). In computing: a credential that represents permission, passed along with requests.
API scopes

Specific permissions granted to a Shopify app defining what it can read or write. Reckoneer requires scopes for themes, products, pages, and metafields at minimum.

AnalogyLike a security clearance with specific access levels. A keycard might open the loading dock but not the executive floor. Scopes define exactly which doors the token unlocks.
OriginScope: from Italian 'scopo' (aim, purpose), from Greek 'skopos' (target, watcher). In computing: the defined boundary of what something is allowed to do.