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Digital transformation through automation

What is low-code development?

Low-code development is a growing trend in software development, offering a faster and more efficient alternative to traditional methods. Low-code solutions are user-friendly and can be utilized by both professional and non-professional developers to create applications of varying complexities. By reducing the time and cost involved in software development, low-code development is an attractive option for companies seeking to automate and speed up their digital transformation efforts.

Low-code software can be created with simple interfaces and functions, but some coding knowledge may be required. These intuitive low-code tools enable developers to build a diverse range of web and mobile applications with minimal knowledge of software design or programming languages. Professional developers also benefit from low-code systems. Applications created using low-code development are faster, easier to build, and simpler to maintain than traditionally coded applications.

What is a low-code platform?

Low-code platforms are a great way to create custom applications for people with some coding knowledge. Having experience in coding or technical writing can be particularly useful when customizing low-code applications. However, even without experience, the graphical user interfaces used by these platforms make it easier to create customized applications, eliminating the need to write code from scratch.

Although low-code platforms are a valuable alternative to code-first development, some of these platforms require basic coding skills. However, as low-code development does not require extensive coding, anyone in an organization can build web and mobile applications if they have at least some technical skills, interest, and time. While maintaining low-code applications is less demanding than maintaining traditionally coded applications, developers still need to set aside time for ongoing maintenance.

Low-code platforms often come with tutorials, training materials, and other user support via an embedded library of resources, making them an excellent choice for organizations that do not have access to professional developers or are trying to reduce the time and cost of developing an application.

The benefits of using low-code development platforms:

• Time-saving: Low-code development allows everyone in your organization to participate in the process, which speeds up the process.
• Increased developer productivity: Low-code platforms simplify application development, making teams more productive. These platforms free up developers' time so that they can focus on more complex projects that require extensive coding.
• Reduced costs: By using low-code platforms, companies can reduce costs by working with existing employees instead of hiring new developers or outsourcing development work.
• More flexibility: Low-code platforms make it easier to maintain, update, and improve applications, as there is less code involved. If professional developers are not available, other members of your team can easily help.
• Integration of other skills: Low-code platforms allow non-technical employees to build applications, which means they allow the integration of other expertise, leading to higher-quality applications.
• Accelerated digital transformation: Low-code development reduces the traditional burden of application development and helps your organization accelerate digital transformation.
• Easier maintenance: Low-code applications are easier to maintain and upgrade than traditional applications. The modules available on low-code platforms are already pre-tested for flawless operation, which reduces the need for debugging.
• Increased profitability: Keeping control of what's happening in software development helps to ensure that all requirements and deadlines are met, leading to greater efficiency and reduced costs in all aspects of development.

What is no-code?

There are various ways to bring an app from an idea to a finished product, but one approach that is often overlooked is the no-code development method. With code-free solutions, even individuals who are not developers can quickly take an existing design and turn it into a working application, with minimal time and resources.

To put it simply, no-code development allows virtually anyone in an organization to create applications that function with the organization's current infrastructure and fit into existing workflows - regardless of their technical knowledge or level of expertise. Code-free app development does not require any coding skills, making it an excellent solution for companies that need to use non-coders for simple web and mobile app projects.

What is a code-free platform?

Organizations now have the option to utilize a no-code platform, which enables them to construct applications using visual building blocks and user-friendly interfaces, without having to use coding languages. With the help of drag-and-drop functionality and other graphical building tools, development is made much simpler and more accessible to users with different skill levels.

Benefits of no-code development:

• you can bring your idea to life with less time and fewer resources than building it from scratch or outsourcing it.
• By utilizing code-free platforms, companies can enhance employee productivity while also cutting down on expenses.
• The approach of changing functionality and design is easier with a no-code approach as compared to a code-based approach.
• Code-free solutions make software development accessible to small businesses seeking a competitive edge.

Constraints on no-code development:

• less flexibility: code-free platforms are less flexible than traditional coding or low-code platforms. As a result, it may not be feasible to develop an app that meets a specific set of needs and expectations.
• Security: as there's no control over vulnerabilities in the platform, security can be a concern on platforms without access to the code.

Low-code and no-code tools allow you to build various applications and systems with ease. Some examples of what you can build with these tools include:

• Web portals: Create web portals that enable easy access to information for customers, employees, or partners.
• Mobile apps: Build simple mobile apps for different operating systems that can be used by your employees or customers.
• Process automation: Automate repetitive tasks and processes like sending emails, processing forms, and notifications.
• Analytical tools: Create data analysis tools and reports to help you understand your business better.
• IoT (Internet of Things) solutions: Develop applications to control and monitor IoT devices and sensors.
• E-commerce: Set up e-commerce platforms to sell products or services.
• Educational platforms: Build educational platforms to train employees and offer content to the general public.
• Online forms and surveys: Design simple or complex online forms to collect data and feedback.
• Chatbots and virtual assistants: Create chatbots and virtual assistants to automate the answering of customer questions.
• User dashboards and dashboards: Develop dashboards to monitor key metrics and data.
• Web interfaces for databases: Create simple interfaces to access and manage different databases.

Is the future in low- and no-code technology?

Low-code and no-code platforms are not meant to replace professional programmers and traditional developers because they are often limited and inflexible. Some low-code to no-code platforms may require professional coding for development to complete or customize the application. However, low-code and no-code development will play an essential role in future product development as they make creating applications more accessible to non-technical developers.

The Stroka Business Group has been actively engaged in low-code and no-code platform development since 2015 and has helped numerous clients with the solutions developed. If you have any questions or challenges for us, please do not hesitate to let us know.