Open API (often referred to as OpenAPI) is a word used to describe sets of technologies that enable websites to interact with each other by using SOAP, Javascript, and any other web technology. While its possibilities aren't limited to web-based applications, it's becoming an increasing trend in so-called Web 2.0 applications.

The term API stands for Application programming interface.

Introduction

The term "Open API" has been recently in use by recent trends in social media and web2.0. It is currently a heavily sought after solution to interconnect websites in a more fluid user-friendly manner. Social networking sites like MySpace, Bebo , and Facebook currently do not have any open API's but with the growing trend and demand for social network aggregator websites like PeopleAggregator, Spokeo and SocialURL there will become more prevalent for these social networks to start considering the opportunities to take a leadership role in this almost web 3.0 endeavor. Open API also applies to collaborative services environments where managed service providers can also outsource specific services to other providers via systems integration. For example, companies like Level Platforms provide an open API to adapt to any business offering within the managed service environment.

With the advent of the Facebook Platform, launched June 1st 2007, Facebook incorporated an open api into its business model

OpenSocial is currently being developed by Google in conjunction with MySpace and other social networks including Bebo .com Engage.com, Friendster, hi5 , Hyves, imeem, LinkedIn , MySpace, Ning, Oracle , orkut , Plaxo, Salesforce .com, Six Apart, Tianji, Viadeo, and XING. The ultimate goal is for any social website to be able to implement the APIs and host 3rd party social applications.

"Open API" also becoming very popular among Technical softwares, for the purpose of collaboration between different trades. Such as among Architects and Engineers. Since there are different softwares for designing structures, buildings, these trades finds a way to use each others work thru "Open API". For example an Architect can draw in CAD software, and Engineers (Civil, Mechanical ) can implement these plans into their software. Basically it is used for translation purposes.

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