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The 10 API Commandments

"Follow these rules you'll have mad bread to break up"

  • Biggie Smalls
  1. Start with the end user in mind. Your API should make their lives easier, not harder.
  2. Keep it simple and intuitive. Avoid unnecessary complexity and make sure it’s easy to understand and use.
  3. Be consistent in your naming and structure. This will make your API easier to use and maintain.
  4. Use HTTP status codes correctly. Ensure that they accurately reflect the success or failure of an API request.
  5. Provide clear and concise error messages. This will help developers quickly understand and fix any issues they encounter.
  6. Allow for flexible data input and output formats. Consider using multiple formats such as JSON and CSV exports depending on payload size and user persona.
  7. Version your API. This will allow you to make changes without breaking existing integrations.
  8. Document your API thoroughly. Make sure that developers have all the information they need to use your API effectively.
  9. Test your API rigorously. This will help ensure it’s reliable and will catch any bugs before they become major problems.
  10. Continuously monitor and improve your API. Keep an eye on usage patterns and respond to any feedback to make your API better over time.

Remember, your API is a representation of our brand and can greatly impact our users’ experience. Let’s take the time to design it well!