What is API? — UK Software Development Guide
Direct Answer
An API (Application Programming Interface) is a defined set of rules and protocols that allows different software systems to communicate with each other. When software exposes an API, it allows other software to request and receive data or trigger actions without needing to understand the underlying implementation. APIs are the connective tissue of modern software — enabling systems to integrate, share data, and work together.
API in the UK
UK businesses interact with APIs daily — HMRC Making Tax Digital uses APIs for VAT submission, Companies House provides an API for company data, NHS Spine exposes FHIR R4 APIs for healthcare integration, and GOV.UK Notify uses an API to send government notifications. Building software that integrates with these UK government APIs requires specific technical expertise. ClickMasters specialises in UK government API integrations.
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