Low-Code and No-Code Applications: Simplifying the Creation of Digital Solutions with Google, Microsoft and SAP

During the month, I needed to implement a quick tool for collecting information from various projects without creating specific templates for each project, and where the data to be collected could vary. On the other hand, the information should be visually adapted to the company/project to meet some quality requirements.

This example shows some of our day-to-day work collecting information from our technology activities. We aim to obtain information quickly, without too much complex development, with flexible and cost-effective solutions to provide specific responses to management or business problems.

At the same time, digital transformation has accelerated the demand for agile and accessible technological solutions. In this scenario, low-code and no-code platforms have emerged as powerful tools, allowing users without advanced programming knowledge to create functional and customized applications. These platforms democratize software development, making it accessible to professionals from different areas. Among the main options available on the market, solutions associated with Google Forms, Microsoft's application generator, and SAP's Build Apps stand out. In addition, the combination of tools such as Google Forms, Google Sheets, and Google AppSheet offers a practical example of how it is possible to produce fast and high-quality work.

Google Forms and Workflow Automation

Google Forms is a widely used tool for creating online forms, surveys, and questionnaires. However, it becomes a powerful low-code tool when integrated with automation platforms such as Google AppSheet. AppSheet allows users to create applications directly from data collected in Google Forms without writing code. For example, an order management application or a task tracking system can be developed using form data as a basis. This integration makes it easier for small and medium-sized companies to create customized solutions that can automate processes and improve productivity.

Practical Example: Custom Forms and Dynamic Applications

Imagine a project management department that needs to collect information and/or evaluate a project from various stakeholders. There are several projects with different names and people representing different roles. The questions must be adapted to the project type and the role these people play in it. Using Google Forms, a custom form can be created to collect information. This data is automatically stored in a Google Sheets spreadsheet, which is the basis for developing an application in Google AppSheet.

?With AppSheet, the company can create an application that:

1. Automates project feedback management: The form data is transformed into a list by project and user, which can be viewed and edited directly in the application. Different questions can be directed depending on the user's role in the project.

2. Facilitates communication: The app can send project participants automatic confirmation emails or reminders.

3. Provides real-time reporting: The organizing team can directly view metrics, such as the number of responses, in the app.

4. The company or project’s branding and logos can be placed on the form.

?This solution saves time and ensures that processes are executed accurately and with quality, reducing manual errors and improving the user experience.

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Microsoft Power Apps: The Microsoft App Builder

Microsoft offers one of the most robust low-code platforms on the market: Power Apps. This tool allows you to create custom apps that integrate seamlessly with the Microsoft ecosystem, including Office 365, Dynamics 365, and Azure. With an intuitive, drag-and-drop interface, Power Apps is ideal for companies that already use Microsoft solutions and want to expand their digital capabilities. For example, you can create an application to manage inventory, automate HR processes, or even develop specific solutions for industries such as healthcare and education. The platform also offers connectivity to various data sources, including cloud services and external APIs.

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SAP Build Apps: Innovation and Business Integration

SAP, a leader in enterprise solutions, has also entered the low-code market with SAP Build Apps. This platform allows companies to create custom applications that integrate directly with SAP systems, such as S/4HANA and the Business Technology Platform. SAP Build Apps is aimed at professionals who want to develop solutions specific to their operations, such as supply chain management, quality control, or customer service applications. The platform offers a visual development experience with pre-built components and support for complex integrations, ensuring that the applications created meet the needs of large-scale businesses.

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Pricing Analysis: Cost-Benefit of Google, Microsoft, and SAP Solutions

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Google Workspace and AppSheet

Google offers a flexible pricing structure for its tools, including Google Forms, Google Sheets and AppSheet. Here is a breakdown considering 1 user license:

1. Google Forms and Google Sheets:

- Both tools are free with a Google (Gmail) account. However, for business use, it is recommended to opt for Google Workspace, which offers additional features such as greater storage capacity and technical support.

- The most basic Google Workspace plan, Business Starter, costs US$6 per user/month (depending on the quote). This plan includes access to Google Forms, Google Sheets, and other applications in the suite, such as Gmail and Google Drive.

2. Google AppSheet:

AppSheet's pricing model is based on the number of applications and the complexity of the functionalities. The Starter plan is free but limited to 10 applications and has basic features.

The Core plan costs US$5 per user per month. It allows professional users to create more robust applications with advanced integrations and complex automation.

?Total Cost for 1 User License (Google Workspace + AppSheet Core):

- Google Workspace: $6/month

- AppSheet: $5/month

- Total: $11/month

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Microsoft Power Apps

Power Apps is offered as part of the Microsoft Power Platform ecosystem. Pricing varies by licensing type and functionality level:

1. Per User Plan:

The cost is $20 per user/month for full access to Power Apps functionality.

- Ideal for users who need to build and use apps independently.

2. Per App Plan:

The cost is $5 per user/month per app.

- Recommended for companies that want to provide many users access to specific apps.

?Total Cost for 1 User License (Power Apps):

- Depends on the plan chosen, ranging from US$5 to US$20/month.

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SAP Build Apps

SAP Build Apps is part of the SAP Business Technology Platform (BTP), and its cost is associated with platform licensing. SAP does not disclose prices per user, as they vary according to the company's size, the volume of use, and the resources contracted. However, estimates indicate that the cost can start at US$1,000 to US$2,000 monthly for small and medium-sized companies, including access to SAP Build Apps and other BTP platform services.

?Total Cost for 1 User License (SAP Build Apps):

- The cost is significantly higher, starting at US$1,000/month, and is more suitable for large companies that already use SAP solutions.

?Conclusion

Low-code and no-code platforms are revolutionizing the way companies approach software development. Tools like Google Forms integrated with AppSheet, Microsoft Power Apps, and SAP Build Apps offer flexibility, agility, and cost-effectiveness, enabling organizations of all sizes to create tailored digital solutions. Whether it’s to automate internal processes, improve customer experience, or integrate complex systems, these platforms are essential allies in the digital transformation journey. With them, the future of application development is within everyone’s reach, with options ranging from affordable solutions for small businesses to robust platforms for large corporations.