ReshaMandi has recognised the advantages of GraphQL and embraced its adoption across mobile platforms (Android and iOS) and web (Reshamandi.com). By leveraging GraphQL, ReshaMandi aims to bridge the gap between frontend and backend teams, enhance UI consistency, reduce data overconsumption, and improve overall user experience.
GraphQL is gaining popularity in client-side development for mobile and websites due to several advantages it offers over traditional REST endpoints. Let’s explore some of these benefits.
Client-Driven Approach
Unlike REST, which is server-driven, GraphQL empowers clients (mobile apps or websites) to request specific data attributes they need. Clients can tailor their queries to retrieve only the required information, leading to reduced data transfer and improved performance.
Efficient Data Fetching
With GraphQL, clients can fetch multiple resources in a single request. This eliminates the need for multiple round trips to the server, reducing network overhead and latency. As a result, GraphQL enhances the overall efficiency of data fetching.
Flexible and Declarative Queries
GraphQL allows clients to declaratively specify the shape and structure of the data they expect to receive. Clients can define complex queries with nested fields, eliminating the need for multiple API calls. This flexibility enables frontend developers to fetch and display data efficiently, reducing over-fetching and under-fetching issues.
Versionless APIs
GraphQL promotes backward compatibility by avoiding the need for versioning in APIs. Clients can evolve their data requirements without impacting existing functionality. This decoupling between client and server allows for easier API evolution and faster development iterations.
Reduced Payload Size
Since GraphQL responses only include the data explicitly requested by the client, the payload size is significantly reduced compared to REST. This optimization is particularly beneficial for mobile applications with limited bandwidth or slower network connections.
Rapid Iteration and Development
GraphQL’s self-documenting nature and introspection capabilities make it easier for frontend and backend teams to collaborate. The schema-driven development approach enables parallel development, faster iterations, and better communication between teams.
Ecosystem and Tooling
GraphQL has a vibrant and growing ecosystem with a wide range of tools, libraries, and community support. These resources make it easier to integrate GraphQL into existing projects and leverage its benefits seamlessly.
ReshaMandi and its Approach to Technology
The adoption of GraphQL at ReshaMandi was initiated by our VP, Shiv Prasad Khillar. His vision and inspiration prompted us to explore GraphQL integration in mobile and web development, leading to positive outcomes and enhanced efficiency.
It’s worth noting that the usage of GraphQL depends on the specific needs and scalability requirements of each project. While REST APIs are not going away and still have their merits, GraphQL provides an alternative approach that offers unique advantages, especially when dealing with complex data requirements and optimising client-server communication.
Lastly, if you’re curious about the widespread adoption of GraphQL, you’ll be amazed to see the extensive list of companies utilising it. You can explore the GraphQL users’ list at https://graphql.org/users/.
