Application Programming Interface — or API in short — is crucial in all businesses regardless of the industry. It is composed of protocols, routines, and tools that allow two different programs to communicate.
API lets two different products, services, or applications interact without the need to know how each of them are implemented. It also provides flexibility when designing new and existing tools and opens opportunities for innovations.
APIs help businesses save time and money and simplify app development. But other than being just an integration technology, API is a tool that helps developers do more.
That being said, it’s important for every business to integrate their app with API and below are just some of the reasons why you should consider it now.
Improved Developer And End User Experience
As mentioned, API lets two different applications communicate, letting developers generate insights and collect analytics easily. As a result, it empowers developers to create better user experience for end users.
Encourage Innovation
Since API allows people, such as developers, to have access to other software or services, it makes it easier for them to contribute to the company’s success. As a result, it lets the organization standout from its competitors and at the same time, create better products for their consumers.
Improved Security
A well-managed API platform lets developers and individual groups work independently while ensuring that security precautions are being applied. High-quality APIs can control access, combat bots, and enforce other policies.
Which API System Is Best For You?
Overall, API’s main goal is to provide management, security, and development to the business. It’s crucial if you want to deliver a better end user experience, innovate, and control who can access your system.
However, not all API systems are created equal; as a business owner or developer, you have to know which platform would work best according to your IT objective.
Below are some messaging formats to consider:
JSON (JavaScript Object Nation) – This is a protocol used for data interchanging over a network connection. It’s used to send structured data between a server and a web application and works as an alternative to XML.
REST (Representational State Transfer) – This is a set of architectural styles usually used for web applications. It utilizes HTTP requests to access, collect, create, and/or delete data. It’s an alternative to the more robust SOAP.
SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol) – This protocol allows sending of messages over the Internet. The small amount of data is usually written in XML format, which is then sent using HTTP.
XML (Extensible Markup Language) – This is a “standard-based language” that allows the creation and transfer of data over the Internet and corporate networks. It uses “human language,” thus helping people, systems, and computers comprehend each other at a certain level.
Again, these are just some of the messages formats used to integrate applications and there are other options to choose from. If you’re not sure which type would work best on your system or you want to learn more about APIs, you can send us a message at sales@wemanageit.com.ph.