What is a Low-Code Development Platform?
Low-code, also known as no-code, is a modern technique of developing applications. Therefore, a low-code development platform is a product that offers you with a graphical user interface for programming. It allows you to generate code rapidly while reducing the conventional programming efforts. These platforms also reduce the amount of time spent in manual coding by allowing the rapid development of code. Additionally, low-code development platforms also assist in the speedy setup and deployment of applications.
How to use low-code development platforms
Low-code development platforms work by using visual development, which abstracts and automates each step of the lifecycle of developing applications. This reduces both the complexity and time needed to deliver custom applications.
They come with pre-written codes and templates. This allows for users with low coding abilities to develop applications with ease. In simple terms, they work by providing a common language in visual building blocks for developers.
Low-code development platforms have three primary components
These include:
Graphical User Interface– this component is used for programming. It is a D and P (drag and drop) interface that allows a business user to define inputs and outputs. It also helps with defining necessary operations.
Integrations for I/O– This component allows businesses to store their data in databases. Low-code development platforms offer interfaces to these databases by enabling users to build the output functionality without applying much effort.
Application manager– this component allows users to build, debug, deploy, and maintain low code applications. It also allows users to keep them up-to-date.
The top low-code development platforms
Below is a review of some of the best low-code development platforms available on the market today:
This is a low-code cloud-native platform that allows businesses or organizations to develop mission-critical applications at least twenty times faster than conventional methods. It works by leveraging the power of SAP’s digital core from any form of device with or without connectivity. It also comes with pre-built integrations for Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, and other ERPs and database systems. This low-code development platform allows organizations to modernize their processes at their own pace. It does this by bringing low-code programming to complex business IT environments.
Visual LANSA
This low-code development platform accelerates and simplifies the process of creating enterprise apps. It also helps make development teams more productive. This platform features a powerful low-code IDE for developing desktop, web, and mobile applications. The development process is faster, easier, and less costly than conventional processes. It also features extensive testing, integration, and deployment controls. Also, it offers the ability to write code within the IDE. Several thousand companies across the globe currently apply visual LANSA.
GeneXus
This is a unique platform that captures the needs of various users and generates applications that can be applied for present and future technologies. This can be done without the need for learning every new technology on the market. It allows pragmatic developers to evolve faster and respond to changes in the market and technology in a more agile way. GeneXus offers AI-based automatic software generation, multi-experience applications, high flexibility, and business process management support. It also provides deployment flexibility, future proof and does not feature any runtime for generated applications.
Appian
This is platform combines intelligent automation with low-code development. It is designed to help organizations construct smart applications that will enhance their business, customer engagement, and productivity. It also ensures the security of critical organizational applications. The Appian low-code development platform comes with drag and drop tools and offers inherent AI services. It also provides no-code amalgamation to AI/ML platforms. This is done through Google Cloud, A WS, and MS Azure.
Mendix
This is a rapid application development platform that is easy to implement and suitable for everyone. It comes with offline capabilities and supports application production for any device. It also comes with alternatives for private and public cloud, as well as on-premises deployment. It offers the conveniences of computerized backups and Enterprise edition horizontal scaling. Using the Mendix low-code development platform creates agile project management, reusable components, and visual modeling tools.
The benefits of LCDPs
Low-code development platforms offer the following benefits:
Faster development
One of the primary benefits of LCDPs is that they allow you to develop and evolve applications faster. This is because you do not have to use conventional coding techniques, which are complex and time-consuming. The platforms come with pre-built code templates and designs, which you can customize instead of building from scratch.
Easy integration
These platforms simplify integration with existing systems. It also supports the creations of APIs, which help fuel the next generation of applications.
Great User Experience
Low-code allows organizations to design applications from scratch, using pre-built templates or by importing existing designs. This influences the performance and functionality of the created application. This element plays a significant role in providing a great user experience.
Other benefits are:
- They support modern architectures
- Provide bullet-proof security
- Allow flawless deployments
Final Thoughts
Low-code development platforms allow leading organizations and companies to deliver innovative software solutions across various industries. This helps them address various issues in the business and industries in general.