API Design Methodology

API Design Methodology

At some point, we all need to design and implement APIs for the Web. What makes Web APIs different than typical component APIs? How can you leverage the power of the Internet when creating your Web API? What characteristics to many "great" Web APIs share? Is there a consistent process you can use to make sure you design a Web API that best fits your needs both now and in the future?

In this session Mike Amundsen describes a clear methodology for designing Web APIs (based on the book "RESTful Web APIs" by Richardson and Amundsen) that allows you to map key aspects of your business into a usable, scalable, and flexible interface that will reach your goals while creating a compelling API for both server and client developers. Whether you are looking to implement a private, partner, or public API, these principles will help you focus on the right metrics and design goals to create a successful API.

Director of API Architecture, API Academy, CA Technologies

An internationally known author and lecturer, Mike Amundsen travels throughout the world consulting and speaking on a wide range of topics including distributed network architecture, Web application development, and other subjects.

In his role of Director of Architecture for the API Academy, Amundsen heads up the API Architecture and Design Practice in North America. He is responsible for working with companies to provide insight on how best to capitalize on the myriad opportunities APIs present to both consumers and the enterprise.

Amundsen has authored numerous books and papers on programming over the last 15 years. His most recent book is a collaboration with Leonard Richardson titled "RESTful Web APIs" published in 2013. His 2011 book, “Building Hypermedia APIs with HTML5 and Node”, is an oft-cited reference on building adaptable Web applications.