Overview
Watch a 36-minute conference talk from GOTO Chicago 2024 where Apollo GraphQL Principal Software Engineer Derek Kuc dispels common misconceptions about GraphQL and demonstrates its true potential as a unifying layer for existing APIs. Explore three distinct API strategies, from direct implementation to Backend-for-Frontend (BFF) approaches, before diving deep into GraphQL federation. Learn how to architect a scalable platform that leverages federation to create a flexible, unified API layer that adapts to evolving business requirements. Discover practical insights about GraphQL's advantages over REST, its role in improving API functionality, and implementation strategies for building a robust platform API. The presentation includes detailed examples, architectural comparisons, and best practices for organizations looking to enhance their API strategy through GraphQL federation.
Syllabus
00:00 Intro
01:04 Experience APIs
02:02 Strategy 1: No layer
04:58 Strategy 2: Backend for frontend BFF
08:15 Strategy 3: GraphQL federation
09:15 What is GraphQL?
20:00 Apollo federation
22:59 GraphQL vs REST?
23:24 GraphQL makes your APIs better
32:00 How?
34:34 Summary
35:39 Outro
Taught by
GOTO Conferences