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    State of Software Quality | API 2023

    Presented by SmartBear
    We provide tools that enhance the process for every aspect of software development. And it begins and ends with quality.

    Introduction

    The API community’s thoughts are always the first thing we seek for visibility into the future.

    Our goal with data is always the same: provide insights on how APIs have evolved and identify which factors will be the most significant to come.

    Simple benchmark data in software methodologies and best practices – from the very people who are knee deep in the API lifecycle every day – is invaluable to a company that prides itself on software development lifecycle (SDLC) tools.

    In our 2021 report, we noted APIs had become more synonymous with an organization’s brand. That’s probably more true today, and we’ve seen more focus on testing, documentation, standards, and security because of it.

    As always, this feedback from real users helps us figure out what matters most to you. We received responses from over 1,100 API practitioners from more than 17 different industries globally.

    With that, enjoy information for the latest State of Software Quality within the API market.

    Download the full report here

    Key Findings

    APIs for events and messaging are increasing. While web experiences are the main use for APIs, their use for mobile, events, and messaging are in tow.
    AI emerges as the new driver for API growth. Although microservices are the main catalyst, 38% of respondents say AI is an increasingly influential driver in future API growth.
    Positive outlook for documentation. 90% of respondents have documentation in place (or plan to), while 60% agree they have strong processes in place for security.
    Standards and security remain concerns. These are the top challenges that organizations want to solve.
    Formal testing processes are becoming more common. Organizations are making strides to have formal testing processes in place. In 2023, we saw a 15% decrease in companies not making testing a priority.

    Methodology

    The findings presented here are based on responses from manual testers, automation engineers, developers, consultants, QA managers, and analysts located around the globe. To gather the following insights, SmartBear conducted a 61-question survey late 2022 into early 2023.

    More than 1,100 respondents shared their insights based on first-hand experience creating, managing, and working with APIs at organizations around the globe. Two incentives drove participation: a copy of this report for every participant, and entry into a random drawing to receive one of five $100 Visa gift cards.

    Demographics

    The State of Software Quality | API report includes insights across a range of organizational sizes, industries, and practitioners.

    Role in Development

    Which best describes your role in software development?

    0%

    The top three roles represented in the 2023 report are:

    19%QA EngineerAutomation Engineer
    14%Architect
    13%Full StackDeveloper

    Responsibilities of Role

    Which of the following API-related responsibilities are you involved in?

    0%

    The top three role responsibilities represented in the 2023 report are:

    56%Development
    56%Design Architecture
    51%Functional testing
    See how API trends have changed over the years

    Company Size

    How many people does your company currently employ?

    1,001 or more employees – 39%|101 – 1,000 employees – 31%|1 - 100 employees – 30%

    This year’s State of API report, as most years, includes feedback and insights from organizations of a range of sizes. No matter the business size, we see continued interest in the State of APIs.

    Industry

    What is your company's primary industry?

    0%
    28%IT / Service (consultants)
    19%Finance, Banking,Insurance
    14% Hardware, Software, or Consumer Electronics

    For this year’s survey, we have gathered insights from a broad range of global businesses engaged in designing and delivering APIs.