Why might I need an API?
In todays increasingly digital world, APIs are often a crucial requirement for businesses that are using multiple different systems and multiple different data sources whether this be application interfaces, software systems or websites. They allow businesses to connect to and access third party data (often in real time) from a single platform which is not only highly beneficial but a necessity to some businesses.
Here are some common reasons why it might be time to consider an API -
- You require access to internal or external data sources - APIs enable applications to integrate with and ultimately access internal and external data sources and/or services. For example, a food delivery application might use an API to send details of a customers order directly to the restaurant to process.
- To link existing systems - For companies with existing legacy systems APIs can be a way to connect them to more modern systems and tools and thus, enhance their functionality. This can help extend the life of the legacy system rather than replacing it.
- You want to extend your functionality - Because APIs can integrate with third party services, developers are able to extend and enhance the functionality of their applications through connecting them to these third party services. An example of this is when you're able to log in to a site using an account you already have on a different platform such as Google or Facebook.
- You require Platform Independence - APIs provide a way for different software systems to correspond independently of the underlying platforms. This makes it easier to develop multi platform applications that can run on different devices or operating systems.
- You want to utilise automation: APIs can enable the communication and data exchange between software systems to become automated. Batch processing is an example where this is particularly useful.
- You want to integrate with third parties: APIs are necessary to allow third party developers to develop applications and/or services that are able to interact with their own platform.
- You want controlled access to your data: APIs provide a controlled way to access data or services, allowing organisations to implement security such as like authentication. This ensures that only authorised users or applications can access certain functionalities or data.
To conclude, there are many different reasons why APIs are essential for developing interconnected and interoperable software solutions depending on what you are trying to achieve.
Further Reading
What is an API?
How does an API work?
