How to build a public Monday.com integration: Building the Auth Flow

Hey there, fellow JavaScript enthusiast! Ready to dive into the world of Monday.com integrations? Let's focus on the most crucial part: building a rock-solid auth flow. Buckle up, because we're about to make your integration secure and user-friendly in no time.

The Lowdown on Monday.com Integrations

Monday.com integrations are a game-changer, allowing you to extend the platform's functionality and create awesome tools for users. But remember, with great power comes great responsibility – and that's where proper authorization comes in. Let's make sure your integration is as secure as Fort Knox!

Before We Begin

Make sure you've got:

• A Monday.com developer account (if you don't have one, what are you waiting for?)
• A solid grasp on OAuth 2.0 (don't worry, we'll refresh your memory)
• Node.js and Express.js ready to roll

Setting Up Shop in Monday.com

First things first, let's get your integration registered:

1. Head to the Monday.com developers section and create a new app.
2. Configure your OAuth settings – this is where the magic happens.
3. Grab your client ID and secret. Guard these with your life!

The Main Event: Implementing the Auth Flow

Now for the fun part! Let's break it down:

Creating the Authorization URL

const authUrl = `https://auth.monday.com/oauth2/authorize?client_id=${clientId}&redirect_uri=${redirectUri}`;

Handling the Redirect and Callback

Set up an endpoint to catch that callback:

app.get('/oauth/callback', async (req, res) => {
  const { code } = req.query;
  // Exchange this code for an access token
});

Token Exchange: The Final Countdown

Time to swap that code for an access token:

const tokenResponse = await axios.post('https://auth.monday.com/oauth2/token', {
  client_id: clientId,
  client_secret: clientSecret,
  code,
  redirect_uri: redirectUri,
});

const { access_token, refresh_token } = tokenResponse.data;

Token Storage and Refresh

Store these tokens securely and set up a mechanism to refresh them when needed. Your future self will thank you!

Locking It Down: Security First

PKCE: Because Extra Security is Always in Style

Implement PKCE to add an extra layer of security. It's like a secret handshake between your app and Monday.com.

CSRF Protection: Keeping the Bad Guys Out

Use a state parameter to prevent cross-site request forgery. It's your integration's bouncer.

Making It Rain: Authenticated API Requests

Now that you've got your access token, it's time to put it to work:

const response = await axios.get('https://api.monday.com/v2', {
  headers: {
    'Authorization': `Bearer ${accessToken}`,
    'Content-Type': 'application/json',
  },
  // Your query goes here
});

Best Practices: The Cherry on Top

• Handle errors like a pro. Users love helpful error messages!
• Store tokens securely. Treat them like your deepest, darkest secrets.
• Respect rate limits. Monday.com's servers will appreciate it.

Testing and Debugging: Ironing Out the Kinks

• Use Monday.com's OAuth playground. It's like a sandbox, but for grown-ups.
• Common issues? Check your redirect URIs, scope permissions, and token handling.

Wrapping Up

And there you have it! You've just built a secure, user-friendly auth flow for your Monday.com integration. Pat yourself on the back – you've earned it!

Remember, this is just the beginning. With this solid foundation, you can now expand your integration to do all sorts of cool stuff. The sky's the limit!

Now go forth and integrate! Your users are waiting for the awesome tools you're about to create. Happy coding!