An API is a tool that every business needs and even currently uses but may not fully understand. When you don’t understand what an API is or its uses, then you’re almost doomed not to get the full range of benefits.
What is an API?
APIs are tools that work to connect servers to clients. The servers, in most cases, are programs or software, and the client is a device, like your phone or laptop. APIs are a set of protocols that essentially bridge the gap between programs and the users. They’re an essential component of any business and can help improve customer relations and even employee workflows.
Is an API a widget?
APIs are the framework that allows for widgets to work. They’re the tech behind the front-facing widget, so in a way, yes, APIs are widgets, just not the way you think. Rather than a widget being the full API, it’s a program that’s delivered via an API so that there’s a visual endpoint.
APIs don’t always need to have this visual endpoint. Sometimes they simply link programs together so that you can streamline processes or even automate processes. You can have a payment widget, for example, but facilitating that connection between your website and the payment provider is an API.
What are the Most Common Types of API?
There are APIs that do almost any job, but the most common purpose of an API is to connect or link software, allow authorization, or to boost security. They can help automate several aspects of your company as well, simply by allowing programs to talk to each other. While APIs on their own aren’t enough, they provide the framework necessary to get the ball rolling on new, innovative practices.
You may need to use additional software or protocols to get the result you need. Widgets, for example, are an end product that is delivered via an API.
Should I Develop My Own API?
Yes, but you need to go into API development with a clear understanding of what solution you need the API to offer and how you can do more with the investment in question. In most cases, you’re actually better off packaging your API and turning it into a product to expand on your revenue stream. In this case, you’ll get more for your investment and be able to turn your API into a true business asset. To facilitate this, you will need DevOps in-house and a winning API management gateway to not only speed up the time to market but also make managing the API, in general, a breeze.
Even if you don’t sell the API itself, if you have a large business (particularly if that business extends to multiple offices), then using a management tool is essential to ensure quality performance for every user.
Technically you can hire freelance DevOps to create the APIs you need and have those experts train your team so that your API tools can be managed effectively.