Web APIs that were initially designed to allow software applications to perform simple tasks on remote systems, have since evolved into an essential tool that paved the way for digital transformation across variety of businesses. They now can carry out everything from minor operations to complex automation tasks over wider range of systems. REST (Representational State Transfer) and JSON (Javascript Object Notation) together introduced many advanced features that can be utilized in a flexible and scalable manner. This allows us to build complex, multi-tiered, multiservice approach that is well suited for deploying into the cloud. Coinciding with the rise of cloud computing and growing demand for infrastructure optimization, it only further accelerated the use of APIs.

Today, modern microservices design allows a complex application to be broken down into small, independent, and cohesive services a la object models. Microservices can be developed in any language and can be deployed anywhere and can be developed independently, deployed independently, upgraded independently. The breaking down of complex applications into smaller, manageable components makes it easier for organizations to scale at a rapid pace and be agile. The increase in use of microservices drove adoption of APIs. Another key benefit of APIs is that they can leverage existing legacy infrastructure and systems and allowing for a smoother transition from older systems to newer over time.

Mobile applications and web applications alike demand a highly scalable, reliable, real-time, responsive user experience. Microservices and APIs go hand in hand to meet these requirements and more. But with this proliferation of microservices and APIs come the complexities in practicality. Next, we will discuss these issues and more and how we can leverage latest technologies to tackle most if not all. In the words of Chief Brody from Jaws:

“You’re gonna need a bigger boat!”