Low code is an application development method that requires a limited amount of code writing to develop business applications. Low code application development has been a trend for quite a while now. However, our recent study shows that still today there is no consensus on what low code actually is and how it can benefit businesses. In a world where the developer shortage is a real problem, low code can potentially be a great solution. But to who, when and most importantly how?
Development methods explained
In this chapter, we’re diving into the world of application and software development, breaking down the three primary methods used in the industry. Of course, our spotlight will be on low code development, exploring its unique characteristics and benefits.
High Code or Traditional Development
High code is typically used to refer to traditional development. It requires developers to write lines of code in order to create a piece of software. This method is resource consuming. Skilled developers are scarce and developing software takes lots of time and money. Instead of business creating every piece of software themselves, quickly came the off-the-shelf products. Software packages created for certain industries or departments, which are mostly ready for instant use.
Low Code / No Code
Low code finds its roots in the late 90s, early 00s. The goal of low code platforms is to speed up development times by providing a graphical user interface. Often low code platforms provide some kind of end user development, nowadays known as citizen development. These are shared objectives across different low code platform providers.
The main difference between low and no code is, as you might have guessed, the need for code. No code products are aimed at basically anyone, meaning most people with some tech knowledge will be able to build with this type of software. Whereas low code often implies some coding is required or can be beneficial, which means typically developers are more likely to be able to work with these tools.
However, there are lots of differences to be found in the low code development platform market. Some focus on allowing just anyone to build applications, others aim to offer as much design customizability as possible. Not to mention the existence of no code platforms, which require no coding at all and actually can be used by pretty much anyone.
Problems low code battles
Navigating through the sea of software options can at times feel overwhelming, with each solution presenting its own set of features, limitations, and usability. Low code can offer a simplified and consolidated approach to this intricate space. It provides the key to reducing the reliance on a disarrayed mix of solutions, by offering an integrated platform that’s both easy to manage and use.
Off-the-shelf products are often rigid and can impose limitations. Low code platforms offer the contrary. The power to customize and adapt applications as per unique business needs is a significant advantage that low code brings. From design to deployment, low-code gives you the control and the freedom to innovate at speed.
The limited availability of skilled developers is a continuing problem in tech. A recent survey by Infragistics shows that organizations still struggle to find skilled developers and turn to low code and no code solutions to battle this. As these solutions require little to no up-front hand coding.
Choosing the Right Infrastructure
When it comes to low-code development, it’s essential to understand the infrastructure options available to you, as these will play a crucial role in your development process. Low-code platforms are a subset of Platform as a Service (PaaS), providing a range of tools and features to simplify application development. However, there are also other infrastructure solutions such as Software as a Service (SaaS) and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) that you may encounter or consider in your low-code journey. Let’s delve deeper into each of these options to clarify their differences and benefits.
Software as a Service (SaaS)
Software as a Service (SaaS) is a prevalent model delivering software applications over the internet. In a SaaS model, organizations are freed from hosting or maintaining the software, as this is handled by the vendor or a third-party. SaaS offers multiple advantages:
- Accessibility: Users can access applications from any device with an internet connection and a web browser, enhancing convenience.
- Scalability: SaaS providers typically offer various subscription plans, ensuring alignment with organizational needs and facilitating growth.
- Automatic Updates: The provider handles system updates and maintenance, ensuring the software is always up-to-date.
- Multi-Tenancy: A single instance of software can often serve multiple organizations, thus reducing costs without compromising security.
- Security: The provider assumes responsibility for both the software’s and data’s security, ensuring robust protection.
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) provides virtualized computing resources over the internet. This innovative model allows businesses the flexibility and control to manage their infrastructure, which includes the operating system, applications, and data. By opting for IaaS, organizations can bypass the need for physical servers, storage, and networking equipment, subsequently lowering costs and minimizing the risk of downtime.
Platform as a Service (PaaS)
Platform as a Service (PaaS) offers an additional layer on top of IaaS, providing businesses with a platform to develop, test, and deploy applications. This intermediary between IaaS and SaaS handles the underlying infrastructure’s complexities, thus equipping organizations with the necessary tools to craft custom applications tailored to their specific requirements.”
Speed versus Customizability
Choosing the right low-code platform for your business is crucial, and there are many factors to consider. One of the primary considerations is the trade-off between speed and customizability.
Speed
In a fast-paced business environment, the ability to quickly develop and deploy applications can be a significant advantage. Many low-code platforms are designed with speed in mind, offering pre-built templates, drag-and-drop interfaces, and other features that allow you to develop applications quickly. This speed can be a game-changer, especially for businesses that need to respond to market changes or internal demands promptly.
Customizability
On the other hand, customizability is another essential factor to consider. Some businesses have unique needs that require more tailored solutions. In these cases, a low-code platform that offers a high degree of customizability can be more beneficial. These platforms often provide more advanced features and tools that allow you to tailor the application to meet your specific needs.
Balancing the Two
The challenge, of course, is finding a platform that offers the right balance of speed and customizability for your business. Some platforms may prioritize one over the other, so it’s essential to carefully assess your needs and choose a platform that aligns with them.
When evaluating low-code platforms, consider the following:
- Your Business Needs: What are your specific application development needs? Do you require a highly customized solution, or will a more general application suffice?
- Your Timeline: How quickly do you need the application developed and deployed? If time is of the essence, you may need to prioritize speed.
- Your Resources: Consider your available resources, including your budget and technical expertise. Some platforms may require more technical knowledge to take full advantage of their customizability features.
- Future Growth: Consider your business’s future growth and how that may affect your application development needs. A platform that offers both speed and scalability can be a wise investment.
Choosing the right infrastructure, as we discussed in the previous chapter, is an integral part of finding the right low-code platform that balances speed and customizability for your needs.
In Conclusion
The software landscape is shaping up to provide a broad range of options. Each organization applies a different IT strategy, meaning their needs and requirements will allow for different implementations. The future holds great things.
If you want to learn even more about low code development and or how to implement it in your organization. Feel free to take a look at our partner’s website or reach out to us here. We would love to discuss the possibilities with you.
