Things to know about no code
The terms low-code and no-code are sometimes used interchangeably in business. But the reality is that they represent two different approaches to application development.
What is low-code?
Although similar in purpose to the more widely-used low-code approach, no-code development actually takes things a step further. Low-code development is designed to provide easy-to-use coding solutions, allowing less-technically trained users to work within a platform, using pre-built templates and drag-and-drop elements to rapidly develop custom applications. It allows them to get a head start on projects by configuring settings and leveraging pre-built components, instead of needing to build everything from scratch using code. Junior-level developers and business analysts are also able to take advantage by contributing more tp projects then they would otherwise be able to.
However, at some point it does require some limited knowledge of coding to ensure full functionality. Low-code still provides a number of advantages over hand coding, such as shortcuts that take developers past the framework and testing phases, and directly into building the app. But at the end of the day, someone with at least a basic understanding of coding will need to polish up and finalize the project.
No-code
No-code is exactly what it claims to be: a development approach for people with absolutely no coding experience. It goes beyond simply providing shortcuts, and instead uses declarative programming to build applications based on user inputs. In other words, no-code development allows you to skip coding entirely, telling the system what you need, and then allowing the system to build the application itself.
Like low-code, a no-code platform will likely also include pre-built
functionality in the form of drag-and-drop tools and a highly-visual,
user-friendly interface, but the major difference is that it allows
users to build apps from start to finish, without ever having to
implement a single line of code. No-code is all about the citizen
developer being able to create simple but effective apps on their own to
automate more of the business. No-code is about configuration over
code.
Essentially, low-code targets developers, while no-code targets business users.
Low-Code Apps for Dummies
Increased business understanding
Automate business processes
Accelerate your application development
Do more with less
Simplify changes
Connect the enterprise
Modernize the user experience
Scale app delivery
Reduce expenses
The landscape of no-code development is rapidly changing, and staying up to date with current trends is essential for organizations looking to remain competitive. Below are some pivotal no-code trends to keep an eye on:
- Increased no-code adoption by enterprise businesses
Large enterprises are increasingly adopting no-code solutions to streamline operations and drive innovation. These platforms are no longer the domain of just startups or small businesses; companies of all sizes have started to implement no-code tools to speed up their digital transformation efforts while also boosting productivity. - Improved security and governance
As more critical business applications are built using no-code platforms, there is a growing concern that software designed using no-code solutions may be vulnerable. These concerns are creating an increased focus on not only agility and ease of access, but also ensuring reliable security measures. This includes layered permissions, user authentication, data encryption, and compliance tools. Additionally, audit logs that track changes and monitor for suspicious activities are becoming common features in no- and low-code tools. - More app development by citizen developers
Long gone are the days when software could only be designed and deployed by IT experts. As more non-technical teams become empowered to create applications, there will be an increased emphasis on educating and training citizen developers to build secure, efficient, and powerful apps. - Increased demand for integration
Organizations are seeking no-code platforms that can effortlessly connect with a variety of applications and services. Platforms offering higher degrees of customization, along with API and plug-in capabilities for quick integrations, are increasingly in demand. - Heightened interest in open-source alternatives
The need for solutions that meet strict data requirements—especially among large organizations like banks and governments—is driving interest in open-source no-code alternatives. These platforms supply the required customization and compliance features that many enterprise-level organizations require, without the risk of vendor lock in. - Increased focus on scalability
Until recently, it was an accepted fact that no-code solutions were best utilized in building simple products and tools. That said, as no-code platforms evolve, there is a clear trend towards developing capabilities that allow for the creation of more complex and scalable applications. Extensive integrations, advanced workflows, and powerful management features are all becoming more standard in no-code platforms, creating a world where no-code development goes hand in hand with scalability. - Integration of no-code solutions with AI, ML and IoT
No-code is designed for simplicity, but that does not necessarily mean its limited to simple technologies. AI, machine learning, and the internet of things are all opening new doors for no-code development, making it possible for users to build more advanced applications that leverage increased extensive data backed by intelligent programming. - Emergence of new no-code tools
Finally, as the no-code market continues to grow and evolve, we are seeing new platforms and tools entering the space on a near-constant basis. Although this may begin to feel like a crowded market, ultimately it will foster increased competition, leading to better features, capabilities, and value for the end-users.