An application programming interface (API) provides programmatic access to service functionality and data within an application or a database. It can be used as a building block for the development of new interactions with humans, other applications or smart devices.

Gartner defines API management is the set of people, processes and technology that enables an organization to publish APIs safely and securely, either internally or externally. 

It allows organizations that create APIs or use others' APIs to monitor activity and ensure the needs of the developers and applications using the API are being met. Organizations are implementing strategies to manage their APIs so they can respond to rapid changes in customer demands.

In this PodChats for FutureCIO, we speak to Degui Xu, solutions engineering at Kong to elaborate on the value of API, and API management, as organisations push forward their digital transformation initiatives.

1.       How prevalent is API use in Asia today? 

a.       In a typical enterprise – private or public – where is the concentration of API use? 

b.       Has it grown significantly since the start of the pandemic? 

2.       What is the biggest (one only) misconception that non-IT people have of APIs?

3.       For IT people, what is the biggest challenge when it comes to API?

4.       Within the context of digital transformation initiatives (projects), what are the top 3 benefits of using APIs?

5.       What are the top 3 mistakes organisations are making when employing APIs?

6.       Coming into 2022, what trends will influence the expanded use of APIs in enterprises?