governing-payload-structure

API payload structure should use a top-level JSON object to ensure consistent client-side parsing and prevent integration issues. Wrapping collections in an object with an items array allows adding metadata fields like next_page_token without breaking changes.

I-JSON compliance for API payloads means adhering to RFC 7493 to guarantee better interoperability across different JSON parsers. It establishes strict rules for serializing JSON documents so that all conforming parsers interpret the structure predictably.

Standardize collection wrapping in API response design by mandating an items array within the top-level JSON object. Use a structure like {"items": [...], "next_page_token": "...", "total_count": N} rather than returning a bare array.

A contract type taxonomy for JSON payloads categorizes documents into state representations and commands. This classification provides clarity on the payload's purpose, distinguishing between returning current state and requesting desired state changes.

This API payload structure approach works without external dependencies because it functions as a governance reference. It provides design rules and audit conventions for JSON payloads directly, requiring no additional libraries or frameworks to implement.

Audit API contract types for payload structure when designing new endpoints or reviewing existing JSON responses. This ensures adherence to envelope conventions, semantic field ontology, and I-JSON compliance before client integration begins.