API Development & Management

API development is building application programming interfaces that let software systems exchange data and trigger actions in each other. APIs connect websites, mobile apps, CRMs, ERPs and partner platforms so they work together without manual effort. MechPlan designs, builds and manages secure, scalable APIs for internal systems and third-party integrations.

REST APIs expose fixed endpoints for each resource, while GraphQL APIs use a single endpoint where the client requests exactly the data it needs. REST is simple, widely supported and well suited to standard integrations. GraphQL reduces over-fetching and suits apps with complex, changing data needs. MechPlan builds both, along with SOAP and WebSocket APIs where required.

APIs are kept secure through authentication, authorisation, encryption and monitoring. Common methods include OAuth 2.0 for delegated access, JSON Web Tokens (JWT) for token-based authentication and SSL/TLS encryption for data in transit. MechPlan implements these controls, together with access rules and performance monitoring, to keep API access secure and compliant.

Custom API development cost in the UAE depends on the number of endpoints, the systems being connected, security requirements and expected traffic. Additional factors include documentation, testing, versioning and ongoing monitoring. A single integration API costs much less than a full platform API used by partners and multiple apps. MechPlan provides a fixed quote and timeline after a free 30-minute consultation.

API lifecycle management is overseeing an API from design and development through deployment, versioning, monitoring and retirement. It includes documentation, governance rules, performance testing and controlled updates so that connected applications keep working as the API changes. MechPlan provides API lifecycle management with post-deployment monitoring, analytics and support.