Why Should You Learn API Design?

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Even experienced and seasoned developers put an effort into specialization of their API design skills. They are aware of the importance of API design – that is why they stress out the need for training. This is already an indicator that newbie developers should devote some time to the learning of API design, too.

Creating an API is beneficial in many ways. Firstly, API creation might become a foundation for future serious development projects. Businesses use the API creation to see off the reactions on the market. Secondly, this way you will increase resource adoption.

Many developers out there like to experiment. They create APIs so they can bring up their ideas to the market and listen in for reactions. As many software development companies hire people with API expertise, there has to be something important underneath it all.

API types you should be interested in

Just like with everything in life, before getting to work you have to know what you want to achieve with your actions. If you are about to start learning API development, make sure you know why it is so important.

Use some logic – you should comprehend yourself when and why it is better to use one API type instead of the other. REST API architecture is usually accompanied by SOAP – 90s industry standard. Yet, bear in mind that all API architecture types carry both advantages and disadvantages within.

Make a plan

The planning phase is almost as important as learning API design. This a delicate process, so never rush into things. Still waters run deep. Planning might take some time, but once you make a proper plan, it will lead you to one way only – to a success.

APIs interact with the existing services. You should figure out how this interaction works and how to maintain it. Make your own version and prepare the needed documentation, as these preparation phases are also important for planning.

Prototype your API’s design

Prototyping gives you the insight into glitches, design flaws, and a couple of more things which you can adjust before you release the final product version. Further, prototyping provides you with information about computer specifications that will bring you more benefits. All this prolong the development cycle a bit, but it is definitely worth the time.

Use RAML in order to deliver highly optimized API

Using RAML is highly appreciated among API developers, as it helps you to deliver quality API. Additionally, it helps you through the designing process. What is more, it allows you code reuse, which results in a highly consistent API.

Authentication and security

Users must have an impression of security while using API. Make sure that you build the security and authentication of every account, so the users have a positive experience.

Resources use

Clients’ interactions with the use of API require resources. That is why you should figure out which are the best practices while designing API. This provides usability and longevity of the API.

Improve usability

APIs should provide both operational and error information, which will ease up their use. Improving usability is also possible via hypermedia. The technology of hypermedia helps you through managing and updating APIs.

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