API observability – The missing link in your governance strategy

Achieving a balance between effective API governance and performance is increasingly crucial for organizations, as highlighted in a session from the LEAP 2.0 API governance conference. Industry leaders emphasized the vital role of API observability in bridging this gap, offering insights into improving API performance, security, and compliance. Observability provides transparency into API functioning, enabling organizations to monitor key metrics, detect anomalies, and ensure APIs meet governance policies. Beyond technical benefits, observability offers value across various business functions, aiding security, marketing, and sales teams. Integrating observability into the CI/CD pipeline, using tools like OpenTelemetry, helps detect issues early and supports incremental implementation. However, it also raises concerns about data privacy, necessitating robust data governance practices to protect sensitive information. By starting small and expanding observability efforts, organizations can build a strong foundation, ensuring APIs operate efficiently and securely while aligning with business goals and regulatory standards.