api-and-interface-design

Design stable REST and GraphQL APIs by defining clear interface contracts, typed inputs/outputs, and consistent error semantics before implementation to prevent accidental misuse and integration debt.

Contract-first API design establishes a clear API surface with input/output types and error contracts before implementation. It is needed for frontend-backend boundaries and cross-team module boundaries to ensure reliability.

Enforce boundary validation and consistent error semantics across module contracts by defining strict typed inputs/outputs and applying interface design rules that prevent misuse across frontend and backend.

The best way to version APIs for additive changes is to design interface contracts that support additive changes through naming conventions and stable boundaries, ensuring existing REST or GraphQL contracts remain unbroken.

Yes, this contract-first design approach works for both REST and GraphQL endpoints by defining typed inputs/outputs, boundary validation, and consistent error semantics across API and module boundaries.

You need to outline the API surface with input/output types before implementation to establish a clear contract, enforce naming conventions, and prevent accidental misuse and integration debt across teams.