What is an API?
Learn more about how Axway helps enterprises manage and draw value from their APIs: https://www.axway.com/en/products/amplify-platform Maybe you are somewhat familiar with the term “API,” but have some doubts about what an API is, precisely – and how it works. If that’s the case, you’re not alone. In this video, we break down what an API is, how it works, and why developers use APIs to connect apps, services, and data. If you have more analogies for what an API is, we would love to hear them, feel free to share them in the comments below! 💬 Topics Covered: ❓What does API stand for? 💻How APIs work (with simple analogies) 💊 Examples of APIs in everyday life [Full video transcript] APIs are all around you. If you've ever used a weather app, booked a flight online, or logged into a website with Google, you've used one. In fact, chances are you're viewing this video with the help of an API. But what is an API? And how does it actually work? API stands for Application Programming interface. In the digital age, countless application programs have been developed using a variety of programming languages. And until APIs came along, they pretty much operated in a vacuum. An API is a type of software that provides a set of rules and tools that enable different applications to speak to each other and exchange information. Acting as a bridge between disparate software systems, an API allows developers to not only build applications that communicate with different programs, but also connect any number of digital services into a more comprehensive user experience. Think of an API as a hotel concierge. At your request, they can call for a cab to the airport or recommend the best place for dinner and how to get there. They take care of everything. Similarly, an API retrieves what you need and displays it on your device without exposing what’s going on in the background. A pharmaceutical company manufactures a batch of diabetes medication, and an API records production details, quality testing results, and updates inventory systems. A distributor receives the medication, and an API tracks the shipment. Temperature conditions are verified as the medication is routed to regional pharmacies. A pharmacy stocks the medication, and an API updates their inventory system. An API helps process insurance information and sends patients a notification when their refill is ready. At any given time, APIs are helping businesses across industries access data that makes operations, collaboration, supply chains, and other critical processes more efficient and fruitful. Developers access APIs to build apps that embed a range of services across their partner ecosystem into an all-inclusive user experience. And where everyday people once needed to manually find updated airline prices and print out a ticket – or had to research the latest weather data themselves – APIs now do all that work for them instantly with just a tap. To offer value and stay competitive, enterprises engaged in digital business have to embrace APIs to reach their users – whether it's their employees, partners, or customers. There's just no other way. Learn more about how Axway helps organizations achieve this – at axway.com. #API #Tech #Axway #SoftwareDevelopment
