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

Hey there, fellow JavaScript enthusiasts! Ready to dive into the world of Paperform integrations? Today, we're going to tackle one of the most crucial parts of building a public integration: the authorization flow. Buckle up, because we're about to make your integration dreams a reality!

What's the deal with Paperform integrations?

Paperform is a fantastic tool for creating beautiful forms, and integrations make it even more powerful. By building a public integration, you're opening up a world of possibilities for Paperform users. And trust me, they'll love you for it!

Before we jump in

Make sure you've got these things ready:

• Your favorite JavaScript environment (Node.js, anyone?)
• A HTTP client library (Axios is my go-to)
• Paperform API credentials (you can snag these from your Paperform account)

Got all that? Great! Let's get this auth party started!

OAuth 2.0: The VIP pass to Paperform's data

We'll be using OAuth 2.0 for our authorization flow. It's like the bouncer at an exclusive club, making sure only the right people get access to the good stuff. Paperform uses the authorization code grant flow, which is perfect for server-side applications.

Crafting the perfect authorization request

First things first, we need to construct our authorization URL. It's like sending out a VIP invitation to the user. Here's what it should look like:

const authUrl = 'https://api.paperform.co/oauth/authorize?' +
  'response_type=code&' +
  `client_id=${YOUR_CLIENT_ID}&` +
  `redirect_uri=${encodeURIComponent(YOUR_REDIRECT_URI)}&` +
  'scope=forms:read forms:write';

Make sure your redirect_uri matches what you've set in your Paperform developer settings. It's like making sure the address on the invitation is correct!

Handling the callback: Your user's RSVP

When the user grants permission, Paperform will send them back to your redirect_uri with a special code. It's time to roll out the red carpet and grab that code:

app.get('/callback', async (req, res) => {
  const { code } = req.query;
  if (!code) {
    // Uh oh, no code? Time to handle that error!
    return res.status(400).send('Authorization failed');
  }
  // Success! Let's move on to the next step
});

Trading in the code for the golden ticket (access token)

Now that we've got the code, it's time to exchange it for an access token. This is like trading in your VIP pass for an all-access backstage pass:

const tokenResponse = await axios.post('https://api.paperform.co/oauth/token', {
  grant_type: 'authorization_code',
  code,
  redirect_uri: YOUR_REDIRECT_URI,
  client_id: YOUR_CLIENT_ID,
  client_secret: YOUR_CLIENT_SECRET
});

const { access_token, refresh_token } = tokenResponse.data;

Remember to keep these tokens safe! They're the keys to the kingdom.

Keeping the party going: Token refresh

Access tokens don't last forever, but that's where refresh tokens come in handy. When your access token expires, use the refresh token to get a new one:

const refreshTokenResponse = await axios.post('https://api.paperform.co/oauth/token', {
  grant_type: 'refresh_token',
  refresh_token: YOUR_REFRESH_TOKEN,
  client_id: YOUR_CLIENT_ID,
  client_secret: YOUR_CLIENT_SECRET
});

const { access_token: new_access_token } = refreshTokenResponse.data;

Best practices: Keeping it classy

• Always use HTTPS. It's like using a secure line for your VIP communications.
• Store tokens securely. Treat them like the crown jewels!
• Handle rate limits gracefully. Don't be that person who tries to get into the club too many times in a row.

Testing your auth flow: Dress rehearsal

Before you go live, make sure to test your auth flow thoroughly. Try different scenarios:

• Happy path: Everything works perfectly
• Error handling: What happens if the user denies access?
• Token refresh: Make sure you can keep the party going

You can even set up some automated tests to make sure your auth flow is always in top shape.

You did it!

Congratulations! You've just built the authorization flow for your Paperform integration. You're now ready to start accessing Paperform data and building amazing features for your users.

Remember, this is just the beginning. With this solid foundation, you can now explore all the cool things you can do with the Paperform API. The sky's the limit!

Now go forth and integrate, you JavaScript wizard! 🧙‍♂️✨