Birst Web Services vs API

unknown

Hi All, 

I am very new to Birst and I am trying get a C# app to connect to either Birst Web Services or API.  My goal here is to show Birst in a custom application. (C# app) 

I have questions!  

1. Should I be using one over the other? 
   1. If APIs better to use or Web Services?
2. If I should use the APIs how do I install it?
3. I am making an attempt to connect to the Web Services but I am running into Issues. 
   1. According to my settings, I should have access to Birst Web Services.  

 

b. What does that exactly mean? 

  I would assume this means I should have access to the Birst Web Service website.  (https://login.bws.birst.com/login.html) I have seen examples of having access to a Test Page.   How do I get access to this site? I have tried to log in using my M3 Cloud edition id/password and it fails. Its the id I use to create Birst Reports. 

Thank you! 

I will likely have more question! ‍??