Best-practices for Implementing Effective API & Service Management Strategies
Unsung heroes of the app industry are APIs, or application programming interfaces. Those components are essential to the functionality of the programs. APIs, or application programming interfaces, are a set of rules that govern the communication between applications. They give developers instant, standardized access to any capability their company may require.
APIs are what allow websites like Google Maps and Facebook to “piggyback” on the infrastructure of other apps. Similar to how an airline shows hotel and car rental offers next to flight reservation details; TripAdvisor’s app utilizes Google Maps to show users local dining options.
CA Technologies commissioned a global study called APIs: Building a Connected Business in the App Economy, which concluded that 88% of businesses are already making use of APIs.
In the United Kingdom, the use of application programming interfaces (APIs) led to gains in customer experience for 78% of businesses, digital reach for 68%, and supply and demand chain efficiency for 78%. APIs have reduced IT expenditures by 38% and boosted customer satisfaction by 36%. The majority of API users (52%) also think the technology is helping them stand out from the crowd.
Despite all of APIs’ advantages, implementing them across an organization remains a significant problem. The difficulty lies in keeping track of an ever-expanding set of APIs in a static document like Excel or a fluid one like a company Wiki. The most astute businesses have uncovered a standard set of procedures for developing robust APIs that make the most of preexisting services all through the SDLC process. Have a look at the examples below:
SOA MAKES WAY FOR API MANAGEMENT
There has been a change in approach with SOA, or Service Oriented Architecture, which paves the way for API administration. The goals of the SOA design to simplify operations, boost productivity, and cut expenses are commendable. The chosen strategy, however, is the incorrect one. The issue is in how the approach is being implemented.
The top-down methodology used by most businesses today is a major source of dysfunction. This necessitated a rip-and-replace plan to gradually swap out the antiquated business systems with newer, more capable ones. As a result, projects often took years to complete, using up substantial amounts of money and resources in the process.
NextGen SOA 2.0: API MANAGEMENT
There are several similarities between API Management and Next-Generation SOA. Instead of a top-down, rip-and-replace mentality, API management takes a bottom-up, wrap-and-renew method.
APIs give services fresh life by adding a layer of developer-friendly accessibility. Consumers are protected from the complexity of the underlying technology. Investments in API projects also yield a positive return.
The following are the guiding principles of API management:
• Rapid application creation
• Failure is less likely to occur
• Efficiency gains in software development
• Dexterity and adaptability
• Business logic abstraction
• Strong institutional foundations
• Capable of being Reused
EFFECTIVE API MANAGEMENT PROCESS
1. Use an API-first design methodology.
Whether in the cloud or on-premises, API-first design prioritizes the development of the interface before implementing the necessary back-end logic. Using this strategy, businesses may separate issues and concentrate on writing precise API specs.
2 Pick a reliable runtime API.
Finding the right Runtime is crucial after an API has been designed, developed, and implemented. Important features to search for in an API runtime include:
• Hybrid support
• Scalability, reliability, and availability
• Strong orchestration
3. CREATE A CENTRAL SERVICE REPOSITORY
After the API has been designed, developed, and is running on a stable platform, it is crucial that it be exposed in a central repository. The API can be more easily found and used by its intended audience if it is exposed. Services can be easily organized and located thanks to a centralized database.
4: Controlling Service Delivery via Policies and Contracts
Monitoring service iterations and user activity provides valuable API usage data for businesses. This information is useful for API lifecycle management and enables API publishers to weigh the consequences of an API’s deprecation. The enforcement of regulations and contracts is also essential for enabling and managing SLA security.
5: Publicize, Promote and Share APIs
Building a community of developers who use an API requires a dedicated portal. If you’re a publisher looking to increase user engagement, consider offering and advertising content that makes using your APIs easier.
6: Track and Evaluate API Usage
It’s helpful for both developers and business owners to keep tabs on API traffic over time so they can see trends and make informed decisions.
7: Constantly Improvement
Optimizing APIs over time to enhance user experience and productivity is possible because to the ability to refactor the API by repeatedly applying the aforementioned best practices.
In today’s increasingly interconnected and API-driven landscape, it’s more important than ever to clearly define and carefully select the appropriate API to power future growth and development.
Aeonnova’s SME’s are happy to advise you on the best methods and procedures for API development and management. For additional information.
