ODataX: A Progressive Evolution of the Open Data Protocol

TL;DR

ODataX is an improved version of the OData protocol that enhances adoption by simplifying query syntax, adding performance safeguards, and improving caching, while maintaining compatibility with existing standards.

Contribution

The paper introduces ODataX, a protocol evolution that addresses adoption barriers by simplifying queries, implementing performance guardrails, and enhancing caching, all while ensuring backward compatibility.

Findings

ODataX simplifies query syntax for easier adoption.

It incorporates performance guardrails through query cost estimation.

Enhanced caching mechanisms improve data retrieval efficiency.

Abstract

The Open Data Protocol (OData) provides a standardized approach for building and consuming RESTful APIs with rich query capabilities. Despite its power and maturity, OData adoption remains confined primarily to enterprise environments, particularly within Microsoft and SAP ecosystems. This paper analyzes the key barriers preventing wider OData adoption and introduces ODataX, an evolved version of the protocol designed to address these limitations. ODataX maintains backward compatibility with OData v4 while introducing progressive complexity disclosure through simplified query syntax, built-in performance guardrails via query cost estimation, and enhanced caching mechanisms. This work aims to bridge the gap between enterprise-grade query standardization and the simplicity demanded by modern web development practices.