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GraphQL

GraphQL is an open-source query language and data manipulation language for APIs at runtime. It was developed at Facebook in 2012 and released in 2015, and lets a client request exactly the fields it needs.

Source content checked . English translation published 2026-10-27.

In business automation

GraphQL lets a client request a defined data structure. In automation, it can reduce the transfer of unnecessary fields, but requires understanding the service's schema, access rules, and pagination.

Examples

These examples illustrate a possible workflow. Adapt the connections and rules to your own systems.

Business process example

A process requests order details with only the ID, customer, and shipping items. It continues fetching pages until all items have been received, then prepares a packing task.

Relevant tools

Shopify
GraphQL APIs are used for store integrations. Follow the current schema and permissions.

What to check

  • Also check the response's error field. A successful HTTP response does not guarantee that every part of the query succeeded.

Related terms

Sources