Top API Design Rules for Beginners

In the past couple of years we have seen many drastic changes to API trends and so staying up to date with them has become somewhat of a challenge. Though staying on top of these changes will mean that you’re able to develop APIs that are widely accepted. Also, knowing about the latest technologies will make sure that you’re developing APIs that are easier for developers to implement. Plus, you should also make sure to adhere to the API design software set forth by HTTP and URI specifications.

Simplify the Process  

Yes! As API developers we know that the process is complicated. Though it is important to simplify the process for developers who are going to implement your APIs. If its hard to use then, most developers won’t use it. Make sure that the APIs you design is easy to understand after all, developers like everyone else is looking for easier ways to do things. So, it pays to make your API simple.

One way to make sure that the APIs are simple is to focus on its core functionality. So, instead of having an API do multiple things with different features focus on one prime feature. You can then have other APIs for the other features. This type of simplicity will help to encourage adoption of your API.

Big Time Consistency

We are advocates of API consistency because we’ve seen APIs fail owing to a lack of it. Take for instance that if the initial argument of a parameter is the name of a file, the second calls a database seek command, make sure to use this same sequence for all functions. If the order is changed randomly developers using the API will need to master all the different functions. If anything, it slows down development and makes things tedious. If you want the API to be broadly adopted, make sure it is consistent.

Solid Documentation of Every Feature and Function  

We simply can’t stress this one principle enough. As people who have worked as developers too, we know just how useful documentation can be. Also, a lack of it can be discouraging. The more detailed your documentation beyond a list of features and functions the easier it becomes for developers to understand. API developers are encouraged to add examples of various instances and in different languages.

Never make the mistake of assuming that a developer will use it because it offers a unique set of features. Developers shy away from using APIs they find hard to too complicated after all they want reliability and if the API isn’t well documented it signals that it’s not reliable.

Versioning is Important

It is unfortunate that so many API developers overlook this one primary principle. Versioning has to be effectively used so that the APIs can be adapted accordingly. Also, a changelog is very useful since it lists all the new features introduced. Plus, never suddenly remove support for the previous version because the new one is out. The old one should continue to be supported. If you don’t, it sends a signal to developers that you’re not serious about supporting your work. The latest version should encourage developers to implement it in their software’s updates. Things like design and speed enhancements are encouraging for the most part.

Concluding Word

APIs are great, but they number in the millions and most never get picked up by developers. If an API is properly developed the chances of it being implemented by developers improves. So, the above-discussed principles should help serve newbie developers as they embark on the journey of designing an API.