API Management
All DfE Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) must be accessed and managed within Find and Use an API (FaUAPI), the department's API management platform. This will enhance the user experience by providing all APIs in one place and benefit the department by reducing technology spend, with economies of scale.
Purpose
Using the FaUAPI platform will enable the department to streamline API operations, reduce duplication of effort and promote reusability of API integrations.
Centralising APIs:
• brings the added value of easy access for users to a wide range of education data, enhancing the user experience
• saves staff time by improved development and configuration efficiency, as well as removing the burden of analytics reporting which can be done centrally
• provides enhanced security and increased efficiency
Categories
Architecture
- Data Architecture
- Technical Architecture
Technical
- Technical Management
How to meet this standard
This standard determines where teams in DfE can host, build and maintain APIs.
If you are planning to develop an API, visit the DfE IT Help Centre to apply for access to Find and Use an API, by raising a request on the FaUAPI form.
Visit GOV.UK for guidance on how to design, build and operate APIs.
Governance
The Find and Use An API (FaUAPI) Reference Group (FRG) exists as a consultation forum for the FaUAPI project and enables:
- User Research
- Scrutiny
- Information Gathering
- Solution Requirements and Design Validation
The membership of the FRG is open to all members of the DfE. A specific focus of the group however is those with an interest in the design and implementation of the FaUAPI tool.
Attendees of the FRG will be expected to represent their role and/or team at the meeting and ensure that their colleagues and communities of practice are informed and updated on the FaUAPI project progress. There is an expectation on attendees to feedback on views and concerns from colleagues should they arise.
Members of the Solutions Delivery (SD) team and the FaUAPI project team will meet regularly to review the recommendations of the FRG, approve sprint initiation and review sprint outputs
Any risks, issues, or additional priorities identified through the FaUAPI project team or the FRG will be brought to the attention of the SD team and the project SRO.
The SD team and SRO may escalate any necessary concerns and activities to DDaT SLT which serves as the formal reporting mechanism for the FaUAPI programme.
The project Senior Responsible Officer (SRO) is Matt Evans who holds overall accountability for the service’s success.
Version history
| Version | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| – | – | Current version |