GraphQLConf 2026

GraphQL Federation traditionally takes a bottom-up approach: individual service schemas are defined first, and the final federated API emerges from the federation algorithm. However, GraphQL's strength is enabling APIs that are designed around what consumers actually need. A bottom-up model can make it harder to intentionally design the federated API surface. In this talk we introduce Fission, a new federation algorithm that enables a consumer-first, design-driven approach to federated GraphQL APIs. We'll show how Fission lets teams start with API design and derive the services therefrom—flipping the traditional federation paradigm on its head. And best yet: we'll explain using cake.