## Stripe Apps: Building and Managing Integrations

This documentation suite focuses on **Stripe Apps**, a platform that allows developers to extend Stripe's functionality and integrate it with other services. It covers the entire lifecycle of building a Stripe App, from initial setup and development to distribution and ongoing management.

### Key Areas of Focus:

*   **Getting Started with Stripe Apps:** Learn the fundamentals of app development, including creating your first app, understanding its core components, and exploring common use cases.
*   **Developing Your Stripe App:** This section delves into the technical aspects of building apps, including:
    *   **UI Development:** Utilizing the Stripe UI Extensions SDK and its comprehensive library of UI components to build custom interfaces within the Stripe Dashboard.
    *   **Server-Side Logic:** Implementing backend code to validate user actions, process data, and integrate with third-party systems.
    *   **API Authentication:** Understanding and implementing secure authentication methods like OAuth 2.0 and Restricted API Keys (RAKs) to interact with the Stripe API.
    *   **Data Management:** Securely storing sensitive credentials and tokens using the Secret Store API.
*   **App Configuration and Management:** This covers essential aspects of managing your app's lifecycle:
    *   **App Manifest:** Configuring your app's behavior and permissions through the `stripe-app.json` file.
    *   **Testing and Previewing:** Enabling sandbox support, local network access, and external testing to ensure your app functions correctly.
    *   **Versioning and Releases:** Managing different versions of your app and deploying new releases.
*   **Distribution and Promotion:** Learn how to share your Stripe App with users:
    *   **Distribution Options:** Understanding public and private distribution methods.
    *   **Publishing to the App Marketplace:** Navigating the process of submitting your app for review and listing it on the Stripe App Marketplace.
    *   **Install Links:** Enabling users to install your app outside the App Marketplace.
    *   **Promoting Your App:** Leveraging the Stripe Partner Ecosystem to grow your app's reach.
*   **Design and User Experience:** This section provides guidance on creating a seamless and intuitive user experience:
    *   **Design Patterns:** Adhering to recommended patterns for onboarding, navigation, state communication, and more.
    *   **UI Components:** Utilizing the extensive library of pre-built UI components to build consistent and visually appealing interfaces.
    *   **Styling:** Applying design tokens and custom styles to match the Stripe Dashboard's aesthetic.
*   **Migration:** Guidance for developers migrating from legacy extensions to the new Stripe Apps platform.

This documentation aims to equip developers with the knowledge and tools necessary to build powerful and integrated applications on the Stripe platform.