Tech Lead Journal

#210 - Creator of WireMock: Building a Successful Open Source Project and The Art of API Mocking - Tom Akehurst

81 snips
Mar 24, 2025
Tom Akehurst, the creator of WireMock and CTO of WireMock, Inc., shares his journey from Disney software development to building a leading open-source API mocking tool. He discusses the challenges of API integration that inspired WireMock's creation and its role in enhancing developer productivity. Akehurst highlights the shift from traditional testing approaches to more modern methods like the 'testing trophy.' He also delves into the future of API testing amidst the rise of microservices and AI, offering invaluable insights for developers at all levels.
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ANECDOTE

WireMock Origin Story

  • Tom Akehurst's career turning point was working on Disney's MagicBand system.
  • He noticed the integration challenges of the then-new RESTful APIs, which inspired him to create WireMock.
ADVICE

Maintenance and Support

  • Make open-source projects successful by focusing on documentation and bug fixes.
  • Be available for support and demonstrate long-term commitment.
INSIGHT

Timing and Relevance

  • Open-source project success requires solving a relevant problem and good timing.
  • WireMock's success coincided with the rise of REST and microservices.
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