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Organisations need a clear API strategy in place that makes it easy to create , control and consume APIs .
are integrated . Not only can APIs work to actively transform IT architecture , but they can also work with a legacy system to minimise organisational disruption .
However , an API is useless unless it is delivered with consistent quality . To deliver on that need , an API gateway is required . This is programming that sits in front of an API , acting as the single entry point for defined backend APIs and microservices ( which can be both internal and external ).
A gateway is critical to the process because it helps ensure the performance , availability and scalability of APIs by enabling enterprises to initiate delivery with uniform supporting services , including traffic management , transformation and system integration .
In doing so , the gateway acts as a protector by enforcing security while ensuring scalability and high availability . In effect , the API gateway takes all API requests from a client , determines which services are needed and combines them into a unified , seamless experience for the user .
Delivering Digital Transformation
Digital Transformation has become one of those catch-all IT trends that can , in reality , refer to a wide range of activities and priorities .
Modernising IT infrastructure is certainly central to where many organisations focus their efforts , but there is more than one way to deliver the right outcomes .
APIs , for instance , offer a proven way to bridge the gap between legacy systems with modern digital technologies , reinvigorating existing services so they more effectively meet the needs of the business and its customers .
In practical terms , this might include delivering legacy-based applications via web or mobile infrastructure or by adopting microservices to deploy updated capabilities with agility and at speed .
So , while legacy systems can be a hindrance to Digital Transformation strategies , an API-based solution allows for the best of both worlds : the ability to maintain consistency while modernising operational performance .
So , where should teams begin ? Identifying the technologies that fall into the legacy category is the obvious jumping off point – the challenge can be , when
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