Getting ready for an API switch can seem complicated. There are so many factors you need to consider to make sure your data is migrated correctly, and user experience isn’t sacrificed. From researching API types to preparing a foolproof migration plan, there’s a lot you need to do to ensure a successful transition.
Why are APIs Important?
APIs are the gateway between you and your data. An API, or application programming interface, allows you to connect your apps and communicate with data sources.
APIs are integral to your workflow. If you need to switch your API, either temporarily or permanently, you’ll want to make sure you don’t disrupt user experience. The best way to do that is through API versioning.
What is API Versioning?
API versioning is the process of making gradual changes to an API and communicating those changes to users. This ensures a good user experience while you update or switch your API.
Why Go Through With an API Switch?
The process to migrate to a new API seems daunting, but sometimes it’s necessary to keep up with security and business needs. Switching APIs might be necessary when:
- You introduce new updates or features
- You roll out bug fixes
- New security updates are needed
- The technology supporting an API deprecates
- There are changes in business priorities or workflows that require you to go to a different type of API
No matter the reason you need to switch your API, the first part of the process is to create a bulletproof migration plan.
The API Switch Process
Since APIs are so important when connecting your data, migrating everything over to a new API can be stressful. You want to make sure the process goes off without a hitch, so you need to properly prepare.
API Migration Plan
To start creating a migration plan, the first thing you should do is familiarize yourself with the new API and figure out how it differs from the old one. Choose a new API that fits in with your current data needs and security and business process requirements, while also keeping in mind what the future organization’s needs will be. Once you recognize the differences, you will be able to better understand how to structure your requests and implement change.
You should also think about the components that interact with the new API, such as endpoints and data models. Take the time to familiarize yourself with how the new API will handle errors and how you can manage them.
Now that you’re prepared, it’s time to:
- Update your code or integration tool
- Test your migration
- Monitor the results
- Adjust if needed
- Update documentation
- Train your team
If you have a developer background and are connecting to APIs by writing code, you can attempt the API switch yourself, but you do have other options to consider if the task is outside your skill level.
Special Considerations
Before you switch your API, there are a few things you should consider.
Data Loss and Service Disruptions
There is a possibility that during the process of switching APIs, some data might not be transferred correctly. There may also be a brief period of time when users experience buffering. It’s important to communicate any expected downtime to your team and always back up your data before the migration process begins.
DIY or Hire Out
If you don’t feel comfortable switching to the new API yourself, you could hire a developer to help, but that is often the most expensive option. If you or someone on your team feels comfortable switching the API yourself, it is possible to use internal tools to do so. If you want the best of both worlds, you can use an iPaaS solution (like eOne’s iPaaS) to help switch your APIs.
Cost
The cost of switching your API can depend on a variety of factors, such as the timeline, the number of integrations or reports that are connected, and whether you do it yourself or not. Hiring a developer can cost thousands of dollars, while doing it yourself could save money, but you may not have all the technical skills to do it correctly. A good compromise is to use a trusted iPaaS solution or API integration platform that can help you switch your API without breaking the bank.
API Integration with eOne Solutions
Configure your connection with your data and your API using eOne’s integration tools, and then use the configurable interface to create your integrations. While eOne’s tools offer pre-built connections to on-premise and cloud applications, you can also use the configurable API connection setup to:
- Create REST service definitions or import existing REST definitions for use as a connection.
- Design REST service definitions that access a specific portion of an API or create entries for every endpoint.
- Specify entities and methods to use as a source or destination.
- Export any created REST service definitions for use in other instances.
Popdock API Creation Capabilities
Need to create an API? Popdock offers the ability to query many types of data and click a button to publish the data source as an API. This is useful for:
- Creating a complex query across multiple tables and using the Popdock API as a source for integrations.
- Creating a complex query across multiple data sources and using the Popdock API as the source for integrations.
- Using the Popdock API as a data source in BI tools like PowerBI or Tableau.
Ready for an API Switch?
No matter why you’re going through an API switch or what method you use to do it, the important thing to keep in mind is that successful API migration comes down to testing, validation, and communication. You know what you need to do, and eOne Solutions can help get you across the finish line.
