What is API used for?
An API (Application Programming Interface) is used to allow different software systems to communicate with each other. It enables applications to request data, trigger actions, or integrate functionality without needing to understand each other’s internal code.
What is an example of an API?
A common example of an API is a payment API, which allows one system to securely send payment instructions to a financial platform. For instance, a business specialising in treasury operations could use an API to automate sending international payments directly from its own software, without logging into a separate dashboard.
What is an API suite and what components does it typically include?
An API suite is a collection of related application programming interfaces designed to work together to deliver a broad set of capabilities. Instead of offering a single, isolated endpoint, an API suite provides a structured toolkit that developers can use to build, automate, and integrate multiple functions within their systems or web applications.
A complete API suite typically includes:
- Core API endpoints – The functions that allow systems to retrieve, send, create, or update data.
- Authentication and security tools – Usually API keys, OAuth, or token-based authentication service to ensure secure access.
- Webhooks or event notifications – Allow your systems to receive real-time updates when specific events occur.
- Developer documentation – Guides, API specifications, reference materials, code examples, and workflow diagrams to make integration smooth and predictable.
- SDKs or client libraries (when provided) – Prebuilt code packages that speed up integration in languages such as Python, JavaScript, or Java.
- Versioning and sandbox environments – Support safe testing and ensure stability when updates are released.
How can an API suite improve the development and integration of software applications?
A developer's API suite streamlines development by giving teams a reliable, standardised way to access key functionality without building everything from scratch. This reduces complexity, shortens development cycles, and ensures more consistent behaviour across applications.
- Faster integration – Predefined endpoints, documentation, and testing tools reduce onboarding and development time.
- Automation of manual processes – APIs can automate workflows such as payments, data transfers, reconciliation, and reporting.
- Improved scalability – Applications can grow by consuming only the services they need, making systems more modular and maintainable.
- Consistent data handling – Using the same API suite ensures data is exchanged in a uniform, secure, and predictable format.
- Reduced risk – Versioning, sandbox environments, and security features help teams test changes safely and maintain compliance.
- Better interoperability – An API suite enables different systems—internal tools, finance platforms, ERP systems, or partner applications—to communicate seamlessly and provide flawless delivery.
If you or your team are stryggling with developing with our API, our expert implementation team will be on hand to oversee and manage all aspects of the technical integration, ensuring the experience is as smooth as possible.
