Mistakes that Developers Make while Using 3rd Party API

Unlike a user interface, an application-programming interface (API) makes applications talk to each other without any user intervention. APIs are a set of programming instructions and standards that makes the user interface access other web tools and web-based software applications. Many companies, nowadays, make their APIs accessible to other businesses and users. So the software developers have option to use a wide range of third-party APIs to make their products powered by relevant services. But most developers forget some simple facts and commit common mistakes while designing software using third-party APIs.

Common Mistakes that Developers Make while Using 3^rd Party APIs

Ignoring Client-Side Problems

While using 3^rd party APIs, most developers forget the client-side problems. When a user requests a web page, the web page go to the API, the API in turn works from a remote source. Thus, the API takes some time to fetch the information from its originating source and deliver the web page to the user. Thus, an API can increase the web page request time. Many developers request for the API by making one-to-one ratio calls. The ways the calls are made can create problems at the client-side.

Inadequate Caching of Copies

Many developers even forget to create a cache for storing the API data for a shorter span of time. Normally, a business allows the public only to use their data through the API. But it does not permit users to capture any information. But the developers can always create a cache to store the information for a short time span. Despite having a shorter lifespan, the cache will make it easier for the developers to fetch the required information.

Not Checking Hang Time

When an application relies on a 3^rd party API to fetch and deliver information to users, the developers must remember that the interaction will take some time. Both processing the request and fetching the required information will require time. There are also chances that the applicator will not give any response to users when it is waiting for the data. The developers can use any web tool to identify the difference time gap between the request made by the users and the information delivered to the user. The developers must manage the hang time effectively to keep the users engaged.

Opting for XML over JSON

It is a common practice among developers to access 3^rd party APIs through XML. But they forget that JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) is more efficient and effective than XML to gather results from the API. JSON further allows developers to push raw API results through their response. Thus, JSON can push data faster by making the data stored on the server talking directly to the JavaScript code on the web page. Further, JSON makes the arrays and objects more flexible.

Not Testing the Code

Most programmers forget to check their code after integrating a 3^rd party API into their application. There are always chances that the use of an external API can have a huge impact on the functioning and performance of the web application. Further, some APIs need customization to work seamlessly with the software and deliver desired results. The 3^rd party APIs can be used without writing any complex code. But the developers must test their code thoroughly to ensure that the API complements the software’s functioning by delivering the expected results.

While using 3^rd party APIs, many developers even do not focus on legalities. When a company allows other developers to access its API, it requires them to adhere to the service agreement. So the developers must read the service agreement in detail while using or customizing the API. They must comply with the service agreement to optimize their software application’s performance without violating any rules. You can get in touch with a software development company India who can help you build web apps within allocated budgets and time schedules.

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