Building Scalable APIs: Lessons from 10+ Startup Projects
In my experience working with over 10 startups as a technical consultant, I've seen the same API scaling mistakes repeated over and over. Here are the critical lessons that can save you months of refactoring.
The Problem with Premature Optimization
Most technical founders start with the wrong assumptions about scale. They either over-engineer from day one or completely ignore scalability concerns until it's too late.
Lesson 1: Design for 10x, Build for 1x
When designing your API architecture, think about how it will handle 10 times your current load. But only implement what you need today.
What this looks like in practice:
Lesson 2: Database Design Matters More Than You Think
The biggest scaling bottleneck I've seen? Poor database design decisions made in the first month of development.
Lesson 3: API Versioning from Day One
Every startup thinks they'll get their API right the first time. None of them do.
The Bottom Line
API scalability isn't about handling millions of requests from day one. It's about making decisions that won't force you to rewrite everything when you grow.
Want to discuss your API architecture? Get in touch for a consultation.