Designing an API is more than just defining methods and parameters; it’s about creating a seamless connection between the user and the library. A well-crafted API can elevate the user experience, making a library a go-to choice for developers. But what separates a great API from a mediocre one? And what makes an API actively frustrating to use?

This talk explores the principles of effective API design—simplicity, consistency, and flexibility—and their real-world applications. Attendees will learn to identify common pitfalls in API design and how to avoid them. Through an iterative approach, we’ll work on improving a real-world API, transforming it from cumbersome to delightful. This process will highlight the importance of understanding your users’ needs and designing with empathy, ensuring that your API becomes a tool developers genuinely enjoy working with.

Whether you’re designing APIs for internal tools, open-source libraries, or enterprise systems, this session will provide actionable insights and practical techniques to help you craft APIs that stand out.