Requirement – This is the stage where we want to expose some functionality using APIs.
Analysis – We analyze what system will be required to fulfill functionality, API Contract etc.
Development – APIs will be developed as per the contract. The contract or documentation will be published so that the consumer knows what is needed to consume APIs.
Deployed – API is deployed to the production system
Active – This is the version that should be used by consumers
Deprecated – This version is deprecated, but still supported for bug fixes. It is no longer recommended for new consumers to start with.
Retired – After a certain amount of time, the old API version can be retired. For e.g. if a new version with the same functionality is available, you can retire the old version.
API Lifecyle Diagram: