Typical architectures
Target Audience: Developers
TL;DR
Toucan AI supports multiple integration patterns, ranging from direct client-side web components to backend-driven API workflows.
When to use this
Use this page to select the integration model that aligns with your application's security requirements and existing infrastructure.
Integration Patterns
1. Client-Side Embedding (Web Components)
This pattern involves loading Toucan AI components directly into the application's frontend.
- Workflow: The host application generates a secure token on its server and passes it to the
<tc-dashboard>or<tc-ai-assistant>web components. - Best for: SaaS products requiring fast deployment and high interactivity with minimal backend modifications.
- Benefits: Supports responsive design, full interactivity, and user-specific Row-Level Security (RLS).
2. Backend-Driven Embedding (API Integration)
In this model, the backend manages the communication with the Toucan AI API.
- Workflow: The application backend requests tokens and manages access permissions before the frontend renders the analytics components.
- Best for: Applications with complex multi-tenancy, advanced data governance, or legacy system requirements.
- Benefits: Provides maximum control over data flow and allows for custom business logic during the authentication phase.
3. Hybrid Approach
This architecture combines client-side components with backend API orchestration.
- Workflow: Uses web components for user interactivity while utilizing backend API calls for tasks like audit logging or dynamic token attribute generation.
- Best for: Enterprise products requiring deep integration with internal security and logging systems.
Implementation Considerations
- Token Generation: Tokens must be generated on the server side to protect API keys and prevent unauthorized access.
- Row-Level Security (RLS): Use token attributes to map user context to specific data rows, ensuring multi-tenant isolation.
- Branding: Apply custom CSS and themes to embedded components to match the host application's visual identity.
- Deployment Options: Toucan AI is available via SaaS or can be self-hosted using Docker and Helm charts.
Example Architecture Diagram

Summary Table
| Architecture | Primary Advantage | Typical Persona |
|---|---|---|
| Client-Side | Speed of implementation and responsiveness. | Frontend Developers. |
| Backend-Driven | High security and data flow control. | Full-Stack/Backend Developers. |
| Hybrid | Flexibility and deep system integration. | Enterprise Architects. |