Tutorials
The role of the tutorials is to provide a platform for a more intensive scientific exchange amongst researchers interested in a particular topic and as a meeting point for the community. Tutorials complement the depth-oriented technical sessions by providing participants with broad overviews of emerging fields. A tutorial can be scheduled for 1.5 or 3 hours.
Tutorial proposals are accepted until:
April 28, 2025
If you wish to propose a new Tutorial please kindly fill out and submit this
Expression of Interest form.
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Tutorial on
Understanding and Using Web APIs: Effective Selection and Integration into Software Architectures
Instructor
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Martin Zimmermann
University of Applied Sciences and Arts Lucerne
Switzerland
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Brief Bio
Martin Zimmermann served as the Vice Director of the newly established Department of Computer Science at the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts. From 1994 to 1998, he worked as a researcher at IBM European Networking Center and Deutsche Bank Group. Between 1998 and 2001, he held a professorship at the University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil in Switzerland. Zimmermann obtained an M.S. (Diplom) from the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and a Ph.D. from J.W. Goethe University Frankfurt in 1996. He has authored over 50 publications, including contributions to international book chapters, journals, and conference proceedings. His work has earned him several best paper awards, particularly for his contributions to visual programming and context-based mobile applications. His research interests encompass mobile devices, the development of cross-platform mobile applications, and visual programming, with a particular emphasis on user-centered, context-based solutions. A significant portion of his work focuses on enhancing the understanding, design, development, and performance of context-aware applications based on Web APIs.
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Abstract
Abstract
Web Application Programming Interfaces (Web APIs) have emerged as a fundamental element in contemporary software development methodologies, facilitating development teams in the efficient creation of applications by eliminating the necessity to redevelop common functionalities from the ground up.
Web APIs enable the seamless integration of data and functions into various applications (e.g. integration and visualization of weather data, data for e-vehicle charging stations, financial data, etc.). Meanwhile, there are both Web API providers that offer very different services (in the sense of generalists), e.g., rapidAPI.com, and specialized providers that offer specialized services on a topic, e.g. weather data, data on charging stations for e-cars (e.g. data.geo.admin.ch).
As the landscape of Web APIs expands, the variety of API types integrated into applications is becoming increasingly diverse. Selecting the appropriate API for a specific project necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the various available types and their respective optimal use cases. From the perspective of developers, e.g., in the case of mobile applications—it can be challenging to choose the “right web API horse” when numerous providers offer similar services. In this workshop, we will explore various Web API providers, evaluate their APIs, and apply strategies for selecting the most suitable options, along with best practices for integrating Web APIs into applications.
Keywords
Web APIs, API Marketplace, Network API Solutions, Web API Analytics
Aims and Learning Objectives
Participants will gain a thorough understanding of Web APIs' characteristics, significance, and potential, as well as strategies for integrating them into applications. The workshop will analyze specific Web API providers and develop corresponding example applications. We will explore the advantages and disadvantages of Web APIs based on a structured process model.
This tutorial will provide an in-depth examination of Web API provides, enabling participants to better comprehend their functionality and capabilities. Additionally, participants will learn best practices for developing applications using Web APIs, including practical tips for building effective applications.
Target Audience
Researchers, practitioners.
Prerequisite Knowledge of Audience
Fundamentals of Computer Science Concepts & Programming Language Concepts
Detailed Outline
The tutorial is divided into four parts and will cover the following topics:
Exploring Web API Providers Through Concrete Examples : We will examine various Web API providers and specific examples of their APIs to gain a deeper understanding of their functionalities and typical use cases.
Evaluation and Selection of Web API Providers and APIs : We will explore methods and criteria for assessing Web API providers and their APIs, developing tailored recommendations for selecting the most appropriate Web APIs for specific scenarios.
Managing Data Formats in Web APIs : We will focus on JSON (JavaScript Object Notation), the most widely used data format for Web APIs, with an emphasis on visualizing JSON data effectively.
Integrating Web APIs into Applications : We will explore best practices for effectively integrating Web APIs into applications, covering essential topics such as planning, implementation, design patterns, and testing strategies.
Practical Exercises
In the practical exercises, we will collaboratively integrate various Web APIs into applications, including both simple web applications and mobile applications developed using low-code environments.