You can now run concurrent API simulation requests. We have a limit of 4 concurrent requests per users right now to make sure the servers are not overloaded. Based on your needs we can change the limits on a case by case basis.
Please note that doing things like running the same strategy in parallel or updating the universe while a simulation is running will produce undefined results and should be avoided.
Let us know if you have any questions or feedback. Thanks.
We're looking into a simple solution to allow parallel operations from the website. Perhaps charge API credits if you already have a sim running. Another possibility is to just allow parallel operations that are different in nature. For example allow screen operations while a long portfolio backtest is running.
One more thing, we have expanded the API endpoints with several new operations to facilitate portfolio backtests. The announcement for these changes is coming soon.
Can you describe your use-case for parallel operations that make using the API (or API wrapper) inconvenient?
I think the way most people use this is to run backtests in the API, but still want to play with a backtest (or two) in the web GUI. Looks like we can now do this.
Thanks for looking into this.
I mostly work in the web platform rather than the API. A lot of the time I’m just logged in ,
Typical use cases for me:
Kick off a long portfolio backtest, then immediately start a second one with a small parameter change so I can compare them when both finish.
Leave an AI Factor training/simulation running and, while it is still going, run screens or another shorter simulation instead of sitting idle.
Mix operations that are different in nature (e.g. screen while a portfolio backtest is running), which is the option you already mentioned.
Even a limited version on the site would help: allow one long job plus one other job of a different type, or a small number of concurrent sims with a credit charge if that is what it takes. For users who live in the platform rather than the API, that would be worth it.
I think it makes sense to allow up to two simultaneous requests. It's a much better user experience and will likely make us more money since you will be more willing to do more.
NOTE that AI training / validation is not restricted since it's pay per use.