Professional API Development

API

APIs have the purpose to act as an interface between unrelated systems. We explain their use, strengths and added value for companies.

API - use, strengths and added value for companies

API stands for Application Programming Interface. API is a framework of methods and functions. These were created for the purpose of providing access to the backend of third party applications in order to make use of already established services.

The rules and specifications inherent in the API's methods and functions allow multiple applications from one user to interact with each other.

Nearly all of us - knowingly or unknowingly - use APIs on a daily basis: online payments, navigating Google Maps, etc. - everywhere here are Programming Interfaces in use.

They are used in the following areas:

Communication with operating system, e.g. Windows Application Programming Interface (WinAPI) application programs for the Windows Operating System (OS);
Database Management System (DBMS) to store and retrieve user data while maintaining necessary security measures;
Communication Protocol, e.g., XML-based Extensible Messaging and Presence Protocol, XMPP (formerly Jabber) for instant messaging, presence information, and user lists.
Social networks: Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn;

Content Management Systems, e.g. WordPress, or service like Google's GSuite;
One of the most used API interfaces are probably the Facebook and Google login APIs. These allow a site or application, where records are valid across application domains and can be used to access other services, to communicate efficiently. This is good for the User Experience.

What are the strengths of APIs?

1. Versatility

Functions of other software or the infrastructure of other platforms can be used. No new code needs to be written. Because the code provided by others has been tested, verified and works.

2. Language and technology independence

API interfaces can be developed in the language and technology that optimally meets the specific project requirements. Subsequent changes to the API are also easily possible.

3. User experience

User experience depends on the execution of the client's own part. As a rule, a web application based on an API offers better performance. The data transfer after the request to the server is faster than with a mixture of HTML/CSS because of the data type. API based web applications do not require traditional loading and are very useful.

4. Separation of server and client

APIs allow interaction between systems or applications. It communicated using the JavaScript Object Notation, JSON. The JSON data format exists independently of the programming language. Parsers as well as generators exist in every Programming Language. Clients and servers have no expectations of each other. If changes to the frontend and backend are envisaged, these can be carried out on condition that the Programming Interfaces is maintained.

API interfaces are scalable and exist and are compatible with popular devices. They allow flexibility in application execution, where Frontend-information is sent from the server and API hosting takes place via independent servers.

5. Conservation of resources

APIs hardly need any resources. Memory is not required and even a high volume of concurrent requests can be handled. In addition, there is no need to program with HTML, which means less processing on the server.

Conclusion - APIs have great added value for companies

In the age of digitalization and the constant progress of digital process - from AI (artificial intelligence) and ML (machine learning) are being used more and more sensibly - APIs play a central role. They allow companies to optimize internal processes and open up to the outside world for their own benefit. APIs are an important resourceto increase the competitiveness of a company. They offer added value for start-ups, SMEs and large companies.

appleute encourages and accompanies companies to approach transformations with the help of APIs. Establishing APIs in the context of a company makes companies more attractive and interactive: new customers can be generated, and new partnerships can be reached. In most cases, it is only a matter of time before the optimization of internal systems has a positive impact on company figures. And as already mentioned: APIs are not exclusive! They are available to every company.

The establishment and connection of API interfaces is important for companies like Start-ups and SMEs generally be viewed very positively. Application interfaces enable companies to offer new services and optimize existing ones. Customers enjoy a more comprehensive offering and service. Companies of the future will increasingly need to make use of APIs and understand how to operate them.