13.07.2022

Low Code

"Survival of the fittest" is more relevant than ever and is also associated with a multitude of challenges due to digitalization and globalization. With limitless possibilities, cost efficiency and flexibility, this is where low-code platforms can help you focus on growth and innovation.

What is a low-code platform?

A low-code platform is a development environment for software that uses visual tools instead of classical programming languages. Specifically, this involves working with software modules (similar to building blocks) which, linked by intelligent metadata, become the desired application. The main advantage is that even people without programming skills (e.g. employees from specialist departments) can create applications such as business apps quickly and easily. This not only relieves the burden on the IT department, but is also extremely cost-efficient.

However, it does not mean that manual programming no longer takes place or can take place, which distinguishes low-code from no-code technologies. The modules of low-code platforms can be modified, e.g. using JavaScript or the functional language in the respective system (e.g. ClearLines from nedyx)®).

The use of experienced developers and thus manual programming for low-code platforms is dependent on the individuality and complexity of user requirements. This collaboration enables the efficient creation of applications.

What is the difference between low code and no code?

Differentiation from no-code platforms

In principle, no-code platforms also offer the option of creating applications using graphical building blocks. However, as requirements are constantly becoming more complex and specific, no code quickly reaches the limits of its possibilities. Individual adjustments cannot be made easily and cross-functional workflows are not possible. No-code platforms are therefore more suitable for simple applications that are not customized or need to be modified during the course of a project.

In a world in which the competitiveness of companies often lies in their ability to adapt quickly, the advantage and relevance of low-code platforms becomes clear.

What are the advantages of low code?

Visual modeling
Reusable building blocks
Collaboration tools
Scalable environments
Data integration
Full app lifecycle in one environment

Visual modeling with low code: A revolution in application development

The introduction of drag-and-drop functionality and an intuitive visual user interface has revolutionized the way developers work. Model-driven development makes it possible to visualize how applications work throughout the entire creation process.

The advantages of this innovative approach are manifold:

1. use existing elements to create and deploy applications faster: Users can access a range of pre-built building blocks that they can easily insert and configure into their application. This significantly speeds up the development process and allows even users with less technical experience to create applications. In addition, the reuse of existing elements in low-code platforms enables consistent and standardized development.

2. involvement of specialist departments in developmentThe simplicity and accessibility of visual modeling allows departments outside of IT to actively participate in the development of applications. This promotes an integrative corporate culture and makes it possible to better meet the specific requirements of different departments.

3. development of a variety of solutions without high costsTraditional application development can often be associated with high costs. Visual modeling offers a more cost-effective alternative as it enables a variety of solutions without the need for expensive resources.

4. better collaboration and decision-making in cross-functional teamsVisual modeling promotes improved collaboration between different team members as it provides a common platform on which ideas can be exchanged and decisions made. This helps to reduce misunderstandings and increase the efficiency of teamwork.

5. freeing up specialized developers for larger, more complex tasksBy automating processes and simplifying development, specialized developers can focus their time and energy on larger and more complex tasks, ultimately resulting in higher quality applications.

Overall, visual modeling offers a revolutionary approach to application development that increases efficiency, reduces costs and improves collaboration. With its many benefits, it will continue to shape the way software is developed and help organizations achieve their goals more effectively.