Api development

I’ve Heard of an API, But What Exactly Is It?

API stands for Application Program Interface and in basic terms it’s a set of routines, protocols, and tools designed for building either applications, operating systems, or websites. API’s specify how software components should interact. In other words, APIs are the set of rules & requirements that govern how one application can and will communicate with another.

API’s facilitate information being passed between programs, which allows applications to share data and act on one another’s behalf - without the hassle or requirement of developers to share all their software’s code.

Why Are Custom APIs So Important?

In today’s technical landscape APIs are so important because they offer users convenience. In 2019 users expect to be connected, and APIs assist in facilitating that connectivity.

For example, APIs allow developers to create apps or websites that tap into larger web services like Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, or Pinterest. That makes it possible for these applications to share data and act on each other’s behalf. In effect providing users the intensely “connective” experience they crave.

Additionally, APIs limit access to a specific set of features, significantly simplifying the data sharing process by circumventing the necessity of code sharing every time you want to integrate data from different applications or sites. Think of APIs as pre-built openings, allowing for the flow of data, effectively saving time, optimizing resources, and in many cases side stepping liability.

As your app scales APIs can even become an added stream of revenue for your company. The first versions of the API we will create will be private to you and your development team. Once you have gained a large number of users you can release your public APIs, allowing third party developers to build custom software enhancing your app functionality, in effect giving your users a better experience, for “free”. You can even eventually charge these developers per each API access!