GraphQL
A query language for APIs that lets clients request exactly the data they need. Alternative to REST that reduces over-fetching and enables flexible data retrieval.
In-Depth Explanation
GraphQL is a query language and runtime for APIs developed by Facebook. Unlike REST's fixed endpoints, GraphQL lets clients specify exactly what data they need in a single request.
GraphQL key concepts:
- Schema: Defines available data types and operations
- Queries: Read data (like GET)
- Mutations: Write data (like POST/PUT/DELETE)
- Subscriptions: Real-time updates
- Resolvers: Functions that fetch data
GraphQL advantages:
- Request exactly the data needed
- Single endpoint for all operations
- Strongly typed schema
- Introspection (self-documenting)
- Reduce multiple round trips
GraphQL considerations:
- More complex server implementation
- Caching is harder than REST
- Learning curve for teams
- Potential for expensive queries
- Overhead for simple APIs
Business Context
GraphQL excels for complex data needs with multiple related entities. Increasingly popular for mobile apps and dashboards where bandwidth and flexibility matter.
How Clever Ops Uses This
We recommend GraphQL for Australian businesses building complex applications with varied data needs, especially mobile-first or dashboard-heavy products.
Example Use Case
"A mobile app fetching user profile, recent orders, and recommendations in one request instead of three separate REST calls."