Custom web applications and mobile solutions are emerging as every business's need of the hour. Irrespective of their size and domain, the demand for software products is increasing as businesses realize their needs. Due to such a rising need, companies are looking to optimize their Web App Development process.

APIs are programmers' best friends as it helps them to enhance & accelerate the development process. It also improves security and enables access to ready-made features without requiring the developers to work on them!

Need help with third-party API integration and which one to select? Learn it all in this blog!

What are APIs in Web App Development?

API or Application program interface is an intermediary program that permits developers to interconnect different software parts for improved interaction between them. Whenever a user interacts with the application, it collects the data and transfers it to the server through the Internet.

The server analyzes the data, performs requisite action, and sends back a response. The best part is that all of these happen within seconds! On receiving the response, the app interprets and presents it to the user in an understandable way. Custom web based applications use API, which fosters this entire process!

There are different use cases of APIs for businesses. Be it data integration or process automation, there's an API available for all of these. For instance, the Programmable Web, known as the largest API database, hosts over 15 thousand APIs.

Custom web application development consultants regard API as a compelling and flexible way to connect a software's internal and external parts. It fosters the internal communication between the elements of the software.

Third Party Integrations- Major benefits

Another company can access the web app data, features, and functionality through third-party integration. Such ready-made solutions help developers benefit from the API features without developing them themselves. The developer doesn't need to spend any time developing the API to get the job done.

The development process consists of multiple sprints. When a developer can save time using an API, it benefits the entire project greatly. Also, the project deliverables are on time with such API integrations.

Pros of using third party API-

• Agile Production- Integrating third-party software can save significant time since it eliminates the need to develop the API. All they need to do is integrate and implement.

• Cost-friendly- When you opt for a third-party API, you save a lot of money! It is because they are not costly at all. With the saved money, you can ask your Web App Development partner to add unique features to the app.

• High-quality- Developers now make APIs available on the market after developing them with extensive research and expertise. This further ensures that the APIs will be of high quality. This also helps to make your end product even better in functionality and usability.

Things To Consider While Choosing Third Party API

The previous section discussed the advantages of using third-party APIs. However, integrating an API means you will give them exclusive access to your site. This is why there are a few considerations to keep in mind before selecting an API-

Quality

Experts offering custom web application development services will suggest opting for an API from providers who have been in the business for a long time now. They should have good reviews from current users and check how often they bring new APIs to the market. It will give you an idea of how much time and effort they put into building an API.

Research

There can be times when you select a third-party provider who is not popular in the market but offers features important to your app. In such cases, custom Web Application experts will suggest doing ample research. Ask questions to them regarding updates, uptime, security, and reliability of the platform. Also, check how their existing clients use the API and whether they are satisfied with the service.

Closely Read the Documentation

Documentation is the first time you interact with the API provider. Web app development experts suggest that checking the documentation is highly crucial. It showcases the effort and research the company has done on the API. Check these out-

Is the documentation organized and properly formatted?

Do you feel they have hidden specific crucial details?

Did they mention update frequency and update process description?

Testing

When a custom web based application depends on an API from a third-party company, you should test it as if it's your own! It recommended adding the same API to test sprint plans. It will help you understand whether the API can generate responses as you expect. It is crucial to check whether the API will alert customers of its downtime and create a backup plan accordingly.

Support

Check whether the API provider offers support services. It is important to have a support service as the API might malfunction; in that case, their technical support team should be in favor. However, Custom Web Application developers report that small API providers for startups often might not have any support team for the customers.

Conclusion

When you choose a third-party API to integrate into your web application, you accept its benefits and certain flaws. This is why proper research and consideration of the above mentioned points is paramount. You would want to create a user experience that boosts engagement and improves the credibility of your web app.

Remember, your customers trust you, and you must make choices that do not hinder their experience.