Today’s tech landscape is facing a new threat- API sprawl. As companies invest in more Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), they begin to proliferate across the organization, leading to decentralized management, unknown factors, reduced visibility, and increased security threats. The issue is all too prevalent in modern organizations, but leaders who are aware of API scrawl potential can prevent it or stop it in its tracks.

How Did API Scrawl Happen?

APIs were introduced in the early 2000s and quickly revolutionized the way many companies conducted business. They operated as a gateway for third-party integration,  supported interoperability, and enhanced capabilities. The industry began expanding rapidly.

Problems arose when teams within organizations began launching APIs independent of the company to support rapid expansion; however, the speedy adoption overpowered companies’ ability to keep up with governance and compliance. Many organizations had no idea how many APIs they had or what they were doing.

The development of DevOps and microservices further fueled API sprawl. As isolated teams, they would often launch their APIs, mainly if communication issues existed among departments. Gradual incremental changes, which are common in DevOps and microservice teams, increased the risk of instability in API systems.

What Issues are Related to API Scrawl?

Teams with API scrawl may be plagued with the following issues.

• Lack of Security: With numerous APIs, it’s challenging to manage access, resulting in a higher risk of security issues.
• Reduced Visibility: When organizations operate across multiple architectures, visibility can be a challenge. As a result, developers struggle to access updated documentation and find it difficult to use APIs effectively. It also increases the risk of misconfigurations and potential outages.
• Increased Costs: The reduced oversight and lack of communication associated with API sprawl increase the risk of duplicate work being stored and deployed, resulting in higher development and maintenance costs.
• Decreased Agility and Productivity: Developers who work with multiple APIs may spend excessive time searching for the necessary tools and information, resulting in frustration and reduced productivity. The sprawl can also make it difficult for teams to react and adapt, potentially leading to missed opportunities.

Does My Organization Have API Scrawl Issues?

API scrawl issues typically develop gradually over time, making them difficult to identify. Ask yourself the following questions to determine if they exist in your organization:

• Do you have clear and consistent documentation for your APIs?
• Do you have automated systems in place that allow developers and teams to discover your APIs?
• Are there clear guidelines in place for the development and deployment of APIs?
• Do you have a comprehensive and updated API inventory?
• Do you have insight into the various functions and services your APIs offer, as well as the number of endpoints for each API?

How to Mitigate API Sprawl

API sprawl is a common issue, but CIOs can minimize risk with the following strategies:

• Implement API Governance: With the right governance strategy, organizations can ensure that all APIs adhere to company processes and guidelines, thereby ensuring optimal security and best practices.
• Create a Centralized Catalogue: A centralized catalogue or repository can serve as a single source of truth for all API systems within your organization. It should offer comprehensive information about each API, including its purpose, function, documentation, and access controls. This system will reduce redundancy, promote collaboration, and make APIs easier to discover.
• Apply Discovery at Scale: With API inventory and discovery being a top priority for many companies, CIOs must identify tools that will scale with their industry. An automated system is recommended as it will provide metrics, visibility, and security according to organizational needs.
• Ensuring Updated Documentation: APIs should be updated regularly to ensure they meet the latest standards. Version control mechanisms can track changes and updates, ensuring version compatibility and seamless integration with existing applications. Organizations should also maintain comprehensive documentation for each API, including descriptions and usage instructions, so developers can understand the APIs and use them effectively.
• Provide Metrics and Visibility: Monitoring and analytics tools enable teams to gain visibility into API usage and performance, including real-time responses and error rates, allowing the organization to detect and address anomalies and bottlenecks, thereby supporting optimal efficiency. These metrics can also help organizations make more informed decisions.

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