API Design: Masterclass on the Fundamentals of Designing and Building Great Web API

This module offers a big picture overview of the process of the API lifecycle including details on designing, building, deploying, and maintaining great APIs. We’ll talk about the Foundations of API-First and the connection between HTTP, the Web, and REST. We’ll review the API Design process including modeling, designing, and describing your APIs. We’ll also cover the process of building production APIs from your designs including the importance of API sketches and prototypes before you commit to the final build.

We’ll also review the importance of testing and securing your APIs along with the process of automated deployment including continuous integration, continuous delivery, and continuous deployment.

Finally, we’ll cover the work of safely modifying existing production APIs including the “First do no harm” principle, the three rules of modifying existing APIs and how to handle both testing and deployment of API modifications. We’ll even talk about the right way to shutdown an existing production API without causing needless pain to your existing users.

Whether you’re new to the API space or an experienced developer, designer, or maintainer, this summary course will help you in your journey to designing and building great APIs.