Getting data from JSON files

In Chapter 14, Getting Data into Collection Views, you learned how to load a file, read data from it using a data manager class, and put it into objects in your app. In this chapter, you will also do the same thing, the difference is that you will be reading data from a JSON file instead of a .plist file. This will simulate reading data from an online web-based service, where JSON is a commonly used format. Let's start by learning more about JSON files and how they work.

Understanding the JSON format

JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) is a way to structure data in a file that can be easily read by both people and computers. Many iOS apps work with an online web-based service to access JSON files, which are then used to provide the app with data.

You will not be learning about how to connect to an online service in this chapter. Instead, you will use sample JSON files downloaded from http://opentable.herokuapp.com, which have been modified...