How to build a public JobNimbus integration: Building the Auth Flow

Hey there, fellow JavaScript enthusiast! Ready to dive into the world of JobNimbus integrations? Let's roll up our sleeves and build a rock-solid auth flow that'll make your users feel like they're Fort Knox-level secure.

Introduction

JobNimbus's API is a powerhouse for construction and roofing pros, and we're about to tap into that goldmine. But first things first – we need to nail down a bulletproof authorization flow. After all, nobody likes a leaky ship when it comes to user data, right?

Prerequisites

Before we jump in, make sure you've got:

• A JobNimbus developer account (if you don't have one, go grab it – I'll wait)
• A decent grasp on OAuth 2.0 (don't worry, we'll refresh your memory)
• Node.js and Express.js set up and ready to rock

Got all that? Awesome! Let's get this party started.

Setting up the OAuth 2.0 flow

First stop: registering your app with JobNimbus. Head over to their developer portal and set up your application. You'll walk away with two shiny new toys: a client ID and a client secret. Guard these with your life – or at least, you know, don't post them on Twitter.

Implementing the authorization request

Time to build that authorization URL. It'll look something like this:

const authUrl = `https://app.jobnimbus.com/oauth/authorize?client_id=${clientId}&redirect_uri=${redirectUri}&response_type=code&scope=read_contacts`;

Now, when your user's ready to connect, just redirect them to this URL. They'll land on JobNimbus's login page, looking all official and trustworthy.

Handling the callback

Once the user's done their thing, JobNimbus will ping your redirect URI. Set up an endpoint to catch that callback – it'll be carrying a precious cargo: the authorization code.

app.get('/callback', (req, res) => {
  const code = req.query.code;
  // Time to trade this code for an access token!
});

Exchanging the code for access token

Now for the good stuff. Let's swap that code for an access token:

const tokenResponse = await axios.post('https://app.jobnimbus.com/oauth/token', {
  grant_type: 'authorization_code',
  client_id: clientId,
  client_secret: clientSecret,
  code: code,
  redirect_uri: redirectUri
});

const accessToken = tokenResponse.data.access_token;

Boom! You've got yourself an access token. Treat it like your firstborn.

Refreshing the access token

These tokens don't last forever, so let's set up a refresh mechanism:

const refreshToken = async () => {
  const refreshResponse = await axios.post('https://app.jobnimbus.com/oauth/token', {
    grant_type: 'refresh_token',
    client_id: clientId,
    client_secret: clientSecret,
    refresh_token: storedRefreshToken
  });

  return refreshResponse.data.access_token;
};

Securing the token storage

Now, don't go stashing these tokens in a cookie jar. Use secure, server-side storage. If you must store on the client, encrypt that stuff.

Making authenticated requests

With your shiny new token, you're ready to make some API calls:

const response = await axios.get('https://app.jobnimbus.com/api/v1/contacts', {
  headers: { Authorization: `Bearer ${accessToken}` }
});

Just remember to play nice with those rate limits, okay?

Error handling and edge cases

Things will go wrong. It's not pessimism, it's programming. Handle those errors gracefully:

try {
  // Your API call here
} catch (error) {
  if (error.response && error.response.status === 401) {
    // Time to refresh that token!
  } else {
    // Handle other errors
  }
}

Testing the auth flow

Before you ship it, break it (in a controlled environment, of course). Set up some tests, try to trick your system, and make sure it holds up under pressure.

Conclusion

And there you have it! You've just built a robust auth flow for your JobNimbus integration. Pat yourself on the back – you've earned it. From here, the sky's the limit. Go forth and integrate!

Remember, the best integrations are built on a foundation of solid security and smooth user experience. You've nailed the security part, now go make it shine!

Happy coding, and may your API calls always return 200 OK!