Low-code or No-code Development: Why is it trending?

As we’re here to discuss trends and concepts of software, let’s talk about a recent hot topic ?? Low-code and no-code development have become popular and are demanding attention. Gartner says the industry will grow to $30 billion by 2025 (23%). Such interest started during the pandemic and is constantly rising. But the hype around such technologies might be overkill? ??

Difference between Low-code and No-code?

Both are basically a set of tools and platforms that allow non-developers to build apps via interface. I think it’s obvious from the name that in low code you still need to understand the basics of coding. Intuitive graphical tools and embedded functionalities in low code still need expertise in IT. Whereas no code can be used by non-tech users like designers, marketers, project managers… No-code platforms typically use drag-and-drop tools to build apps fast. There are a number of platforms now that have both technologies, so the choice gets easier.?

Low-code platforms: Appian, OutSystems, Quickbase, Mendix, Zoho Creator, Kissflow, Salesforce Lightning, Nintex?

No-code platforms: Appy Pie, Glide, Quixy, Jotform, Softr, AppSheet, Landbot, AppMySite, Caspio, Bubble

Benefits of low-code and no-code development?

The most mentioned benefit is that developing with minimal or no code makes industries free from IT enterprises ??To launch a new product, a new landing page, and own CRM systems businesses don’t need development teams. The platform might be done by the ready team inside the company.?

Another plus everyone lacks is time. Professional coding and development take time to develop, test and launch. With the platforms that offer built-in patterns for different businesses, it takes weeks not days to build web apps or mobile apps.

Last but not least, it is way cheaper so it allows businesses more experimentation. At the same time, it’s not time efficient and might not take off. Some say that building MVPs with the help of no-code platforms is a good strategy. I say it’s risky enough because if MVP succeeds and needs scale-up, it’ll be extra work. Also, some functionality might be lacking as no-code development is still unstable.?

Limitations and Risks of No-code and Low-code Development?

As it’s all new technologies, they aren’t controlled and have many security risks. The low-code and no-code development have limited visibility into what the team is doing. Planning the “development” process with tools of low code is chaotic at the very least. I’d say that any technology needs some guidelines or monitoring to avoid "shadow IT".?

Another issue is scaling and managing these apps for enterprises. As the decisions are pre-built they are not suitable for customization. Also, more complex programming is not available for low-code and no-code development. Therefore, building custom software with intricate solutions isn’t quite possible without professional coding.?

There is a funny thing about no code and low code tools. To maintain and improve them we need full code expertise. It means developers won’t be substituted. If the client developed a prototype with no code platform, it’s easier to develop an app like that with a professional team.?

Platform dependency, knowledge of design, speed and performance issues, and limited functionality are other common setbacks in this type of development.?

When Low-Code/No-Code Development Works

Low code/no code (LC/NC) applications might be a good fit if the business requirements are not high. Automation of administrative processes, creating virtual assistants or chatbot tools, and function-specific tools in marketing can be done with LC/NC solutions. Small businesses, start-ups, easy automation, and management tools could work with LC/NC development. Lastly, LC/NC can be applied to prototypes and apps that don’t need customization.?

Sum Up

LC/NC development might steadily grow and take care of some processes. However, it isn’t a panacea for reducing prices and use in every industry. As with every technology, it has pros and cons which have to be thought through. Probably if the trend doesn’t go down, more options will allow a better experience and more functions. For now, Low-Code/No-Code still doesn't seem mature to me. It’s easy to say as I am a developer but for those who try beware of hidden dangers ??