Keeping APIs and docs in sync is the key to win at the API economy. Here’s why up to date is the way, and how Redocly helps you get there.
With APIs growing at lightspeed, there’s a strong case for building them as fast as possible.
But when docs don’t follow suit, it gets harder to keep track and document new features. Then, work doubles, time shrinks, confusion sets in, and progress slows down.
That’s the problem that docs-like-code aims to solve.
“Realize that the further the docs are from the code, the more difficult it can be to keep in sync. Think about creating a culture where code changes don’t merge without corresponding doc changes.”
Anne Gentle, Docs Like Code (2018)
Docs-like-code means treating documentation like you treat code — with tools, processes and approaches that are as unified as possible.
The end-game is merging API innovation and documentation into a cohesive flow, where you document new features as they drop, which helps you better understand your product as you go.
The Redocly platform is built to be docs-like-code to the bone. Docs and APIs follow the same kernel of truth, all collaboration happens in one place, and we’re automating every bit of the documentation process.
You write all things docs in GitHub-flavored markdown (GFM) and React MDX. It’s home for developers, easy to learn for writers, and the gold standard for docs-like-code overall.
Your entire workflow is docs-like-code: our cloud layer Workflows lets you bring your entire docs pipeline on the same source control you normally use.
Whenever you add a definition to the API registry (with built-in validation and linting) it becomes the source of truth for your API docs and portals. When the definition changes, Redocly notices and updates docs automatically.
Build preview versions of docs, mocks, and developer portals automatically with every pull request. Bring stakeholders into the conversation before merging.
Your entire workflow is docs-like-code: our cloud layer Workflows lets you bring your entire docs pipeline on the same source control you normally use.
A single source of truth for your APIs including a snapshot of every change
Enforce an API styleguide for more consistent APIs.
Automatic virtualized servers that mock your API makes it more accessible.
Detects broken links and images as an automated build step.
Access control previews and production separately.
Instant lint and previews all the way into your IDE.
Eject React components for deeper customizations.
Easier styling with CSS variables.
Rewrite from the core out results in 50x faster build times in our lab environments.