Title

AWS re:Invent 2022 - Accelerate GraphQL API app development & collaboration w/AWS AppSync (FWM316)

Summary

• Ed Lima and Brice Pella presented on accelerating GraphQL API app development and collaboration using AWS AppSync.
• They discussed the evolution of APIs from monoliths to microservices and the role of GraphQL as an aggregation layer.
• The session highlighted the importance of team collaboration and developer experience in API development.
• AWS AppSync was presented as a serverless service that simplifies the creation of scalable applications with real-time and offline capabilities.
• The speakers introduced the concept of merged APIs in AppSync, which allows multiple teams to work on a single GraphQL API without stepping on each other's toes.
• Merged APIs enable automatic or manual merging of schemas and resolvers from different teams, ensuring data model ownership and development velocity.
• The session also introduced JavaScript resolvers in AppSync, allowing developers to write business logic in a familiar language without managing infrastructure.
• The presenters showcased the benefits of using JavaScript resolvers, including lower latency, no additional cost, and the ability to mix and match with VTL (Velocity Template Language).
• They provided insights into when to use JavaScript resolvers versus AWS Lambda functions, depending on the complexity and requirements of the business logic.
• A live demo was given to illustrate the use of JavaScript resolvers in a real-world application, along with the use of NPM utilities and CloudWatch logs for debugging.

Insights

• GraphQL is increasingly being adopted as a preferred API technology due to its ability to act as an efficient aggregation layer for microservices.
• AWS AppSync's merged APIs feature addresses the challenges of multiple teams working on a single GraphQL API by providing a safe and isolated environment for collaboration.
• The introduction of JavaScript resolvers in AWS AppSync is a significant development, as it aligns with the widespread familiarity of JavaScript among developers, potentially reducing the learning curve and accelerating development.
• The ability to mix JavaScript and VTL within AppSync provides flexibility for developers to transition at their own pace or leverage the strengths of both languages.
• The session demonstrated AWS's commitment to improving the developer experience by providing tools for easier coding, testing, and debugging within the AppSync environment.
• The choice between using JavaScript resolvers and AWS Lambda functions will depend on the specific use case, with JavaScript resolvers being suitable for most scenarios but Lambda functions remaining relevant for complex or language-specific logic.
• The live demo highlighted the practical application of these new features in AppSync and showcased the real-time capabilities of GraphQL subscriptions, which are essential for dynamic and interactive applications.