Getting Started

Your First Backend

In this guide, you'll build your first backend application with Fimaflow. You'll create a workflow, expose a REST endpoint, execute it locally, then export the complete source code to your preferred backend framework.

By the end of this guide, you'll understand the core workflow used to build every backend in Fimaflow.

Demo placeholderBuilding your first backend end to end

1. Create a project

Start by creating a new project from your Workspace.

Projects contain everything related to your backend, including workflows, APIs, databases, environment variables, deployments and exports.

Once the project is created, open the Visual Builder.

2. Create your first workflow

Click New Workflow. Give your workflow a name such as Hello World.

A workflow represents a complete backend process. It can expose an API endpoint, execute business logic, communicate with databases or external services, and return a response.

3. Add an API endpoint

Drag an API Endpoint node onto the canvas. Configure the endpoint:

• Method: GET
• Path: /hello

This endpoint will receive incoming HTTP requests.

Need more information? See REST APIs.

4. Return a response

Drag a Response node onto the canvas. Connect the API Endpoint node to the Response node. Configure the response:

JSON

{
  "message": "Hello from Fimaflow!"
}

Your workflow now receives a request and returns a JSON response.

5. Run your workflow

Click Run. Fimaflow executes your workflow and displays every execution step inside the Execution Panel. You can inspect:

• node execution order;
• execution time;
• inputs and outputs;
• logs;
• errors.

If something goes wrong, use the debugger to identify the failing node.

Learn more in Execution and Debugging.

6. Test your API

Once the workflow is running, open the generated endpoint.

http

GET /hello

Expected response:

JSON

{
  "message": "Hello from Fimaflow!"
}

You can also test your endpoints using Postman, Insomnia or any HTTP client.

7. Export your backend

When you're satisfied with your backend, click Export. Choose the backend framework you want to generate. Available exports include:

• Hono
• Fastify
• Express
• Elysia

Fimaflow generates a complete production-ready project that you can continue developing without vendor lock-in.

See Framework Export for all available options.

What's next?

Now that you've created your first backend, you're ready to build more advanced applications. You can now:

• Connect a database.
• Add authentication.
• Create multiple workflows.
• Use environment variables.
• Integrate AI services.
• Deploy to Fimaflow Cloud.

Next steps

Database

Connect PostgreSQL, MySQL and other databases.

Authentication

Secure your APIs with authentication and authorization.

Workflows

Build larger backend processes with reusable workflows.

Environment Variables

Manage secrets and configuration securely.

Framework Export

Export production-ready source code.

Deployments

Deploy your backend to Fimaflow Cloud.