Introduction
In the past, there have been mainly only two routes for businesses to develop software applications: use in-house developers or outsourcing. But now, there is another alternative – Low-Code/No-Code (LCNC) Development.
LCNC development platforms are types of visual development environments that allow developers, novices and ordinary creators to drag and drop application components, interconnecting them to create mobile and web apps. By this method, the requirements to know the language and write the code are relieved, and one can concentrate on the functionality and composition of the App desired.
Difference between Low Code and No Code ?
Low-code and no-code systems offer the same fundamental benefits – only the degree of coding needed varies.
Low-code development requires a certain level of coding, which is much less than that required for traditional application development. Professional developers use low-code to deliver applications quickly, and to shift their efforts from menial projects to more complicated and unique work. Low expertise level IT professionals may also use low-code tools to develop simpler apps.
No-code development, on the other hand, targets non-technical users in various business roles who understand the needs and rules, but possess little or no coding skills. These rookie developers can easily build, test and deploy their apps, as long as they choose the right no-code platform with abundant tools.
Advantages and Benefits
Easier Development: With modular visual components, instead of code, development becomes easier. From syntax, the focus is shifted to functionality and fulfilling the requirements of the client. Thus Apps are developed far more easily.
Faster Development Cycles: Since you don’t have to write bulk lines of code from scratch, the development process is faster. With the visual interface and pre-built modules, you just drag-and-drop elements, connecting them as if building blocks making App development faster
Cost-Savings: As you don’t need a lot of expertise to develop with LCNC platforms, you don’t have to hire specialized developers – even non-coding professionals are sufficient. As a consequence you don’t have to hand out expensive salaries.
More Agility: With the market evolving all the time and the clients being picky, LCNC development provides quick adjustments which is useful
Enhanced Collaboration: With easy to understand visual components, non-technical members of the team can participate and provide their inputs, enhancing collaboration
Maintenance of Quality Standards: Since the code-blocks are pre-programmed and original in form, there are less chances of variation in code and syntax, leading to uniformity in designs and resultantly maintaining of high quality
Better Privacy and Security: Since LCNC allows businesses to develop applications themselves, they don’t have to rely on partnering or outsourcing, which prevents the risk of sharing of data. Also the standardized components have good professional code, eliminating the chance of programming negligence from a security point of view
Scalability: LCNC platforms often provide you with useful tools to accommodate more traffic, which is helpful for growing businesses. It becomes easy to scale your application and maintain pace with the growing user-base
Reduction in Code Errors: Due to their preprogrammed modular building-block structure, LCNC platforms reduce the chances of syntax and logical errors. This saves development time, and creates more reliable products
Integration Capabilities: Many LCNC platforms come with a range of integration options and APIs that make it easier to establish connections and exchange data. You are able to seamlessly connect your applications with existing systems and databases.
Final Words
Currently the top areas for low-code/no-code are business applications and web and mobile front ends. But it is quickly becoming a standard practice for fast application development. During the COVID-19 pandemic it gained a lot of traction as businesses were forced to keep pace with the fast evolving scenario. Experts predict that eventually LCNC will expand into broader areas such as reengineering technology stacks and ecosystems.