Nordic APIs Digest #25 / 2024
Hello world,
Hope you have been enjoying some time off for the holidays! In our final digest of 2024, we dive into some important API topics for your reading pleasure... (Better late than never—hello, 2025!)
First off, the OpenAPI Initiative 's Overlay specification has reached an official release. So, it's a good time to have our resident standards reviewer, Chris Wood , check it out. Learn how the Overlay specification can be used to standardize executing updates to OpenAPI descriptions.
Next, US-based fintech businesses are repeatedly reliant upon APIs. Kristopher Sandoval explores some of the most prominent examples, as well as the opportunities and challenges this new paradigm presents. One such challenges is API sprawl - learn more about how API sprawl affects business operations in an eye-opening post from j simpson .
We also welcome a couple of contributors to discuss some interesting security topics. Check out the role of APIs in empowering users to manage their digital footprint, from Iam Waqas . Also, Shigraf Aijaz explains the role of API security in modern DevOps pipelines.
Last but not least, what is federated API management? As the number of API gateways and internal tools increases, federated management setups could provide flexibility while unifying common controls to meet governance requirements.
Thanks for reading,
Editor in Chief, Nordic APIs
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Blog Highlights
Why US-Based Fintech Relies on APIs
by Kristopher Sandoval
Financial services are often spread across disparate data sources and services. In this environment, APIs are the glue that binds different tech stacks toward a common goal. Here's why.
How APIs Can Empower Users to Manage Their Digital Footprint
by Iam Waqas
People's need for privacy concerning their personal information is not fading. There is a need to work hard to develop a safe, privacy-based API structure to provide enhanced user control. Learn more.
What is Federated API Management?
by Kristopher Sandoval
To build a federated API management model, Kristopher Sandoval recommends centralizing gateways and setting up governance, decentralized portals, and universal visibility controls. Here's a primer on this emerging approach.
Introduction to OpenAPI Overlay Specification
by Chris Wood
In simple terms, an Overlay is a JSON or YAML document that describes a series of updates to an OpenAPI description. Here is the introduction to to the new standard from OpenAPI Initiative.
How API Sprawl Negatively Affects Business
by j simpson
API sprawl doesn't just affect developers—it can have ripple effects across an organization. From broken services to decreased morale and security risks, it's a business challenge you can't ignore. Here's why it matters.
The Importance of API Security in DevOps
by Shigraf Aijaz
API security is crucial to a DevOps strategy. Here are some guidelines to help integrate seamless and secure API security within a DevOps environment.
At Nordic APIs, we are striving to inspire API practitioners with thought-provoking content. By sharing compelling stories, we aim to show that everyone can benefit from using APIs.
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