I'm curious about how many of you are actually implementing the JSON:API specification in your projects. We've been required to use it for our API, but it's been a real challenge. The libraries aren't the best, and the type attribute feels unnecessary. There's a lot of backend conversion to handle optional fields and types, which means we have to set up a mapping layer even after using OpenAPI to generate our client code. Plus, it seems like nobody on our team really gets the spec, leading to some unconventional implementations. We also don't use links or HAL features, so I wonder why we have to deal with all of this. In my 18 years as a developer, I've encountered over 100 APIs and have never seen it used. So, are any of you using JSON:API, and if so, what positives can you share?
6 Answers
I totally agree! I rarely see JSON:API in action, and it seems to complicate things more than necessary. A simpler, custom format usually offers more clarity and efficiency.
I've hardly seen JSON:API used either. Most teams either go rogue or stick to plain REST or Graph.
Silly question, but are there tools to convert an OpenAPI spec to JSON:API if you're trying to switch?
JSON:API often feels like the 'Corporate Bureaucracy' of APIs. Higher-ups love it because it eliminates the debate on response structuring, but for smaller teams, the overhead with included and relationships often outweighs benefits. If you’re already using OpenAPI, you get most of the contract advantages without the complexity of attributes and type nesting. It's like using a sledgehammer to crack a nut.
Actually, if your backend is well-structured, JSON:API can work pretty well. It's akin to GraphQL since it allows you to specify which fields to return, making it useful that way.
It reminds me of SOAP honestly. I didn't love it, but if your organization is rolling out multiple APIs, having a standard does cut down on ambiguity. Still not a fan though.
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