We can now have machines that are more intelligent than human beings. And yet, we can't seem to be able to do API integration properly. What is it wit

The API Integration Nightmare - by Bruno Pedro

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2024-10-31 22:30:02

We can now have machines that are more intelligent than human beings. And yet, we can't seem to be able to do API integration properly. What is it with APIs that generate so much friction for developers? The Internet is about 55 years old. The Web is 33 years old. JSON turns 18—really! During all this time, we couldn't find an easy way to connect APIs. Why is that, and how can we collectively fix it? Keep reading.

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API integrations aren't something new. In fact, the goal of APIs is precisely to enable connecting different applications together. While building one application, you can choose to use an API to fulfill some of the features. It's easy to think that all application development depends on APIs. Especially Web-based applications where connectivity comes as a guarantee.

So, why aren't APIs easy to integrate with, and what are the factors that contribute to a growing frustration among developers? APIs are supposed to make things easy for developers. But the reality is that building an integration often involves going through poor documentation and understanding inconsistent data formats in an endless loop of trial and error.