How do you share your RESTful API design with developers and consumers?

1 Use a standard format

One of the first steps to share your RESTful API design is to use a standard format that can be easily understood and processed by different tools and platforms. Some of the most popular formats are OpenAPI, RAML, and API Blueprint. These formats allow you to specify the structure, parameters, responses, and documentation of your API endpoints in a machine-readable and human-friendly way. You can use various editors, validators, and converters to create and edit your API specification files.

2 Generate interactive documentation

Another way to share your RESTful API design is to generate interactive documentation that can be browsed and tested by developers and consumers. Interactive documentation lets you explore the features and functionality of your API, as well as try out different requests and responses. You can use tools like Swagger UI, Postman, or Apiary to generate interactive documentation from your API specification files. You can also host your documentation online or integrate it with your code repository or development environment.

3 Create mock servers and clients

A third way to share your RESTful API design is to create mock servers and clients that can simulate the behavior and data of your API. Mock servers and clients let you test your API design before you implement it or consume it, as well as identify and resolve any issues or gaps. You can use tools like Mockoon, WireMock, or Prism to create mock servers from your API specification files. You can also use tools like Restlet Client, Insomnia, or Paw to create mock clients that can send and receive requests and responses.

4 Collect and incorporate feedback

A fourth way to share your RESTful API design is to collect and incorporate feedback from the developers and consumers who will use your API. Feedback is essential for improving your API design, as well as building trust and engagement with your audience. You can use tools like GitHub, Slack, or Google Forms to collect feedback from your API users. You can also use tools like Stoplight, ReDoc, or Slate to incorporate feedback into your API documentation and specification files.

5 Update and maintain your design

A fifth way to share your RESTful API design is to update and maintain your design as you implement or consume your API. Updating and maintaining your design ensures that your API is consistent, reliable, and secure, as well as reflects any changes or enhancements that you make. You can use tools like Git, Jenkins, or Travis CI to update and maintain your API specification files and documentation. You can also use tools like Postman Monitor, Runscope, or Assertible to monitor and test your API performance and functionality.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?