Thanks to the best low code platforms, it is now possible to develop applications with less effort. These won’t let you burn your budget, wait for days/ months, or hire a number of engineers.
Low-code platforms help firms optimize their software development process. They provide various easy visual tools. According to Gartner, 65 percent of application development projects will use low-code development by 2024.[1]
The importance of applications in our daily lives is certainly unprecedented. They are crucial in both personal and professional life.
Low-code platforms are a beneficial investment for many corporate users. Businesses that want to grow must find new ways to increase their production. Investing in low-code platforms could be a more current approach to this problem.
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What are low code platforms and what are the benefits?
A low code platform allows business users to develop applications without writing code. This makes it easier to create custom applications that meet specific business needs.
Low code platforms have become increasingly popular in the last few years. These platforms are useful for companies that have limited knowledge of coding. Also, for companies who don’t have the resources to hire teams of developers to build applications from scratch.
- Lowering the barrier to entry
The biggest benefit of low code is that it lowers the barrier for entry-level software development even further. There’s no need for developers to write code. Anyone with basic skills in user interface design can create software on a low code platform. This means that businesses can build an application without having full-time developers on staff.
- Increased speed and agility
Low code allows organizations to move faster than before. They allow less-expereinced users to create software directly from their business requirements. So, instead of designing and developing, organizations can quickly move from prototype through testing. This often happens within days or weeks instead of months.
- More reliable and scalable
Low code platforms deliver more reliable applications. They allow users to create applications that are easy to use, easy to change, and easy to maintain. The apps created with low code platforms are easy to scale compared to ones created with traditional programming languages like Java or C++.
- Greater resilience and control
Data is stored in the application while using standard programming languages like Java or C++. It’s still saved externally in a database or cloud storage provider like Amazon S3 or Google Cloud Storage using a low code platform. This means you may keep your data private if necessary (for example, if it contains sensitive personal information) while maintaining complete control over who has access to it.
Five examples of the best low code platforms
Each low code platform has a distinct approach. This raises the question, do you have to choose one, or are there multiple platforms that you can select from? Here are the top 5 low code platforms that you can choose.
1. RAD Studio
RAD Studio is a software development suite. It enables developers to create software for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux.
Development environment
The RAD Studio development environment is easy to use. It provides all the tools to develop cross-platform applications. It includes a code editor, Integrated Development Environment (IDE), database tools, web server, database connectivity, reporting tools, etc.
You can build desktop apps with native controls by using C++ Builder or Delphi Mobile.
Main features
- Rapid development environment
- Visual design environment
- Supports rapid application development
2. Appian: low code for process improvement
Appian [2] is a low code platform. It helps companies build applications. It supports both business and IT teams in developing applications without writing code. With Appian, you can create custom applications quickly and easily.
How Appian can improve the process?
The platform provides an intuitive interface. It lets non-technical users build their software. You can also customize it to suit your needs by adding or removing features. You can even design your app.
Appian features for process improvement
- Workflow management allows you to automate processes. Also, you control how data flows through them in real-time. It’s ideal for automating repetitive tasks. Also, it streamlines processes across multiple departments or companies.
- Mobile app development: The mobile app builder helps you build native iOS and Android apps from scratch. Also, it is perfect for creating customized apps for employees on the go!
- Reduced training time: Users don’t need programming experience or technical skills to create their apps. You don’t need to learn complex languages like Java or C++. It makes it easier for them to onboard new team members quickly. Also, it allow them to focus on other things.
3. Mendix: low code for rapid application development
Mendix[3] is an enterprise-ready, rapid application development platform. With Mendix, you can build web and mobile apps in a fraction of the time and cost of traditional platforms.
How does Mendix work?
Mendix’s drag-and-drop visual editor makes it easy for anyone to build powerful applications. Such applications can connect to any data source or cloud service. You can also use our open APIs to integrate with other systems and extend your app’s functionality.
Mendix offers
- Rapid application development: The Mendix platform allows you to build applications without writing code.
- Enterprise-grade security offers a secure data platform with built-in encryption and access control features. You can also integrate your existing identity management systems with Mendix using SAML and OAuth 2.0 authentication protocols.
- Cloud-native architecture: Mendix is built on top of Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Azure cloud computing platforms, so you can run your applications where you want them.
4. Salesforce Lightning: low code for customer relationship management
Salesforce Lightning [4] is one of the most widely used low code platforms. It was first released in 2016 as an alternative to Salesforce Classic. It was the traditional version of the platform that requires coding skills. The Lightning experience offers more flexibility and faster development than Classic. Moreover, it allows for building custom apps.
Salesforce Lightning for process improvement:
- Create a self-service portal for your customers
- Build an online store with eCommerce capabilities
- Manage customer service requests and cases through the Service Cloud Console.
- Automate business processes using Workflow Builder
- Build custom reports using Report Studio
Features
- User-friendly drag-and-drop interface
- Visual workflows and apps
- No coding required
5. Kissflow: low code for business process automation
Kissflow [5] is an easy-to-use tool. It allows anyone to create a functional website or app without coding experience. It is one of the most popular low-code tools available today, with more than 1 million users worldwide.
How does Kissflow work?
Kissflow makes it easy to create reusable components. These components can be used to create new workflows or process flows from scratch. You can also import existing workflows from other systems as long as they are .xml files (e.g., from Microsoft Visio).
Features of KiSSFLOW include:
- A drag-and-drop interface for creating new elements such as text boxes and buttons; no coding is required.
- The ability to customize your workflow in terms of colors, fonts, and other elements so that it fits your brand identity perfectly.
Check which low code platform is perfect for you
There are many low-code platforms to choose from. Ultimately, if you’re looking for the best low coding platform, it really depends on your business requirements. Make sure you evaluate the platforms based on your specific needs. And don’t settle with just one platform, as your business will likely expand and evolve.
Take advantage of the best low code platform that fits your current needs. If you do things correctly, by doing so now, you may be a force to be reckoned with in years to come.
REFERENCES
- https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/low-code-is-the-future-outsystems-named-a-leader-in-the-2019-gartner-magic-quadrant-for-enterprise-low-code-application-platforms-868871260.html#:~:text=next%20few%20years.-,Gartner%20estimates%20that%20%22by%202024%2C%20low%2Dcode%20application%20development,delivered%20in%20just%2010%20weeks.
- https://appian.com/
- https://www.mendix.com/
- https://www.salesforce.com/ap/products/platform/lightning/
- https://kissflow.com/