Why is API maturity important?
API maturity is important for several reasons. First, it affects the usability and reliability of the API, both for the developers who create and maintain it and for the consumers who use and integrate it. A more mature API is easier to understand, document, test, debug, and evolve, as well as more consistent, secure, and scalable. A less mature API is more prone to errors, inconsistencies, vulnerabilities, and performance issues, as well as more difficult to use and maintain.
Second, it affects the business value and impact of the API, both for the organization that provides it and for the organization that consumes it. A more mature API can enable faster and smoother development cycles, better user experience, higher customer satisfaction, lower costs, and higher revenues. A less mature API can cause delays, frustrations, complaints, higher costs, and lower revenues.
Third, it affects the innovation and collaboration potential of the API, both within and across organizations. A more mature API can foster a culture of feedback and improvement, as well as enable new features, functionalities, and integrations that can enhance the value proposition and differentiation of the API. A less mature API can hinder a culture of feedback and improvement, as well as limit the possibilities and opportunities for innovation and collaboration.