APIs: The Hidden Force Behind Digital Innovation
APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) are the silent connectors powering our digital lives. In Nepal, from paying with eSewa to checking the weather in Kathmandu, APIs make it all possible.
What’s an API?
Think of APIs as messengers. They let one app talk to another—fetching data, updating info, or triggering actions. For instance, when your ride-sharing app shows nearby cars, it’s using an API to get live location data.
A Brief History of Nepal:
1990s–2000s: Early days of the internet, few standalone systems
2000s: Rise of IT firms, basic web integrations
2010s: Mobile apps boomed; APIs connected frontend apps with backend services
2020s: APIs now power finance, health, e-commerce, government systems, and startups
How It Works:
An API request (like placing an order in a restaurant) goes from the client (you) to a server (kitchen). The server processes it and sends back a response (your food). It’s fast, reliable, and efficient.
Benefits of APIs in Nepal:
Automate workflows for small businesses
Spur innovation in the startup ecosystem
Secure data access via authentication
Reduce costs by reusing code and services
Types of APIs:
Private APIs: Used internally, like in banks
Public APIs: Open to developers, like weather or tourism data
Partner APIs: Shared between trusted collaborators
Composite APIs: Combine several services into one
API Architectures: REST, SOAP, GraphQL, Webhooks, and gRPC, each with its use cases, from real-time alerts to high-performance systems.
Real-World Use Cases in Nepal:
70% of users abandon sites that don’t load quickly on mobile. Ensure your website:
eSewa/Khalti: Enable mobile payments
Daraz: Manage inventory and orders
Nepal Telecom: Support communication tools
Government APIs: Promote open data and transparency
Conclusion:
APIs are the digital backbone of Nepal’s tech growth. Whether you're building a new product or integrating with existing platforms, mastering APIs is essential for success in a connected economy.
