What role do "Web APIs" play in the OutSystems platform?

Web APIs in the OutSystems platform serve as a crucial mechanism for enabling communication with external services. By providing a standardized way to integrate with various third-party systems, Web APIs allow developers to extend the functionality of their applications by interacting with external data sources, services, or microservices. This capability is essential for applications that need to aggregate data from different sources or provide services that enhance user experience without being tied exclusively to the OutSystems ecosystem.

For instance, if an application requires real-time data from a weather service, a Web API would facilitate that interaction, allowing the app to present dynamic information directly to the user. By leveraging Web APIs, developers can build more versatile and powerful applications that can adapt to user needs by accessing a broader range of functionalities and data.