Most APIs Are Not Truly RESTful — Here Is How to Measure Yours
Software engineer Leonard Richardson created the Richardson Maturity Model (RMM), a four-level framework that measures how closely an API adheres to REST principles. True REST is defined by six architectural constraints, including statelessness, uniform interface, layered system, and the optional code-on-demand, going well beyond simply returning JSON over HTTP. The RMM grades APIs from Level 0, a single endpoint handling all requests, up to Level 3, where servers return hypermedia links that guide clients on available next actions. Most production APIs operate at Level 2, using proper HTTP verbs like GET, POST, PUT, and DELETE, but fall short of full REST compliance. Reaching Level 3, known as HATEOAS, is considered the true REST ideal as it allows backends to evolve independently without breaking client integrations.
This is an AI-generated summary. ShortSingh links to the original source for the complete article.
Discussion (0)
Log in to join the discussion and vote.
Log in