Shopify is making the transition to GraphQL to provide a faster, more efficient, and flexible API. The traditional REST API operates with fixed endpoints (e.g., /orders or /products), retrieving only a limited amount of information per request, often requiring multiple calls to the server.
GraphQL, on the other hand, allows for more precise data retrieval, ensuring that only the necessary information is requested. This reduces the load on Shopify’s servers and speeds up the entire process. This is beneficial not only for you as a webshop owner but also for fulfilment partners like Hexspoor E-fulfilment, where fast and accurate order processing is crucial.
- Efficiency
With REST, multiple API requests are often needed to retrieve all the required data.
With GraphQL, a single request can specify exactly which data is needed. This reduces the number of requests and increases speed, making order processing and inventory management more efficient.
Less data usage & faster load times
Since GraphQL only returns the necessary data, it minimises bandwidth usage. This is particularly beneficial for large databases, such as those containing a high volume of products or orders.
- Greater Flexibility
GraphQL enables the creation of complex queries that would be difficult or impossible with REST. This allows apps and integrations to function more intelligently and efficiently, such as synchronising stock levels and order processing at Hexspoor E-fulfilment in real time.
- Improved Scalability
For growing businesses and larger webshops, GraphQL is better equipped to handle large amounts of data and traffic.
Summary
Shopify is making this transition to improve speed, flexibility, and efficiency—and we are fully on board with this change.
For more information about GraphQL, visit the Shopify Partners website:
https://www.shopify.com/partners/blog/all-in-on-graphql
