The term “No Code” and “Low Code” have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially in the world of software development. These technologies are changing the way businesses create and deploy software solutions, making it easier and faster for anyone to build custom applications without needing to write complex code.
At its core, No Code and Low Code are a type of technology usually found in platforms that provide pre-built components, templates, and easy-to-navigate interfaces to allow users to quickly and easily create applications without needing to have extensive coding knowledge. This means that even those who are not experienced developers can create functional, professional-grade applications without having to spend months learning how to code.
A key benefit of No Code and Low Code technologies is their flexibility. Businesses can create solutions that are tailored to their specific needs rather than having to use off-the-shelf software that may not fit their requirements perfectly potentially resulting in unwanted process change.
The rise of No Code and Low Code platforms has been driven by the increasing demand for software solutions in various industries and the need for faster and more efficient application development processes.
During the past 18 months, we have seen a considerable increase in backlogs of digital transformation projects building up, along with difficulty finding developers in the market, with some finding it difficult to retain current developers. Businesses are now looking for alternative options to the traditional development lifecycle we have always used. No Code and Low Code platforms allow organisations to quickly build and deploy custom software solutions without the need for a team of dedicated developers, saving time and resources.
The terms ‘Low-Code’ and ‘No-Code’ are often used interchangeably, and while they may both be used to create applications without writing complex code, there are essential differences between the two approaches.
Low-code platforms are designed for rapid, iterative development, offering a complete set of tools to quickly build applications with a minimal amount of coding.
However, Low-code platforms still require some coding knowledge, as certain coding skills are needed to develop applications efficiently. Low-code platforms include tools to quickly create user interfaces and back-end services while still allowing developers to customise and extend their applications with custom coding.
Low code gives pro developers access to new technologies like AI, AR and Video. These typically require several different skill sets, which is unusual to find within in-house development teams. With a Low Code platform, more experienced developers can use their knowledge and leverage the platform’s technology to build advanced applications much more quicker than ever before.
No-code platforms offer a completely code-free way to develop applications. They typically provide an interactive interface that allows users to quickly create web or mobile applications with no coding required.
One of the key benefits of No Code is that it makes it easy for anyone to create a functional app, regardless of their technical background. In fact, No Code development requires no technical coding background at all. This opens up the possibility for more people, often those that are subject matter experts to participate in the app development process, allowing for more diverse perspectives and ideas. No-code applications can be easily changed and updated without the need to write any code.
This allows businesses to quickly launch and iterate on their software solutions, staying ahead of the competition in a rapidly changing market. No-code applications have the potential to save time and money for businesses.
Of course, these business subject matter experts are not left alone to create applications but with the support of Local IT teams providing governance and best practices reducing the burden of the old Shadow IT issues. Fusion teams become a collaborative effort where business subject matter experts can create applications to digitise their processes, leaving IT to focus on more complex innovative systems while providing the guardrails.
In conclusion, Low code and No Code each have their own benefits and drawbacks. Whether you choose Low Code or No Code depends on your project’s requirements.
Choosing the right No Code or Low Code software platform can be a daunting task, especially with the vast number of options available on the market.
When it comes to selecting a No Code or Low Code platform, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, you’ll want to evaluate the specific needs and requirements of your project. This will help you determine the type of platform that will best suit your needs, whether it be a No Code platform that allows for complete customisation without any coding, or a Low Code platform that offers the option for developers to use custom coding but still gain the speed to develop applications over traditional methods of coding.
Like any other decision to integrate or buy software solutions, choosing the right fit, both technically and commercially, isn’t an easy choice. With the Low Code No Code space growing at pace, it’s essential to choose the platform that will work best for your business now and in the future. Adding more technical debt with legacy systems is no longer acceptable.
10 Tips on what to look for in a Low Code No Code Platform
Look for a platform that is easy to use and understand. The premise of No Code Low Code is quick and uncomplicated application development.
Look for a flexible platform that can be adapted to your organisation’s specific needs.
You might want to start small by digitising just one business process or have a full-scale project to run globally across several sites.
Alternatively, you might want to start with some consultancy support to help you implement the system and begin digitising a process. You then want to be able to train your core team to use the platform to enable self-built in-house applications without needing further consultancy for any changes.
Make sure the platform can integrate current applications or legacy systems if needed. Just because No Code Low Code technologies make it easy to create applications, you may never replace some legacy systems and ultimately need to know your No Code Low Code Vendor supports various implementations now and in the future.
Make sure the platform you choose has robust security measures in place to protect your data.
Does the platform provider offer cloud services or are you looking for the platform to work on your current domain network. Data is a cyber risk, so controlling where and who accesses that data from end to end is another critical question to ask. Along with where that data is stored and the compliance and GDPR rules that apply.
Look for a platform that can scale using AI, AR, Video and other integrating technologies of the future.
With technology changing rapidly what is current today could be out of date in a few years time. Looking for a platform that is constantly engineering and innovating in that space will help scale your application development goals.
Another important factor to consider is the level of support and resources offered by the platform. Are they reachable by phone or just email? What are their response times to your requests?
With some SAAS software being an off-the-shelf product. When buying into a Low Code No Code platform, you want to look at the option to create your own business Intellectual Property. Furthermore; knowing every application you develop builds on your company’s IP.
Some Platforms have limitations of only being able to use them online and not offline, web based and not mobile based. Limited users or usage per month etc. Of course this depends on the requirements of your project, however, you want to have a platform that can grow as the business grows and the capabilities are there with no limitations on growth.
We all have been caught by “usage” hidden fees or limited to only so many applications you can create before a price increase are there addon options you need to make the platform work. Look for a transparent vendor with ALL the pricing upfront and no hidden charges.
Does the platform offer a trial of their software platform or offers a small licence group to be able to play with the software before committing to further licenses?
While No Code and Low Code platforms are not a replacement for traditional coding methods, they provide a valuable tool for businesses looking to quickly and efficiently build custom software solutions faster. As the demand for software solutions grows, the importance of No Code and Low Code platforms will only continue to increase.
Whatever the future holds, one thing is for sure: the development landscape is changing. And No Code and Low-Code platforms are leading the way.
TAAP Accelerate, TAAP’s No Code Platform can be found in the Azure Marketplace. Get It Now to simplify and accelerates the process of building applications.
Whether you’re looking to create a simple form or a critical business application operating at an enterprise scale, TAAP Accelerate has got you covered.
