Low code: fast, flexible software development for the future

What is low code?

OutSystems, Microsoft Power Platform, Appian and Mendix are just a few of the many low code application development platforms (LCAPs) on today's market. These platforms, which are also known as Rapid Application Development Platforms (RADP's), are designed to build advanced applications with less coding. The intuitive visual drag-and-drop-tools allow both the technical expert and the less experienced user to get started. This accelerates the development process and makes customised solutions more accessible in all environments.

What are the benefits of low code?

“About 83% of IT leaders believe that low code delivers on its promises. Some 79% of respondents report that low code improves collaboration between business and IT"

 

Evoke Technologies

Let's take a closer look at these promises:

• Speed - With less manual coding required, your application can go live within weeks, or even days. It's also easy to make modifications, wherever needed.
  
  
• Cost savings - Less coding means fewer work hours and lower development costs. This also frees developers to refine the applications.
  
  
• User-friendliness - Even non-technical employees can contribute to building applications, improving collaboration between IT and business teams.
  
  
• Flexibility – Low code can be easily adapted and scaled as business needs evolve.

What are the pitfalls of low code?

While low code offers many advantages and great potential, there are also inherent risks. A reliance on 'citizen developers’ can lead to 'Shadow IT', through which applications are created without IT oversight. This can result in security risks and integration issues. Be sure to engage IT professionals as a way to properly manage security, maintenance and scalability.

Another potential pitfall is speed. The sheer speed of development means that the decision-making process has to keep pace. If there is no clear direction or goal, things can even go in the wrong direction. Taking you back to square one. Continuous testing and analysis are therefore crucial.

Is low code the holy Grail in every situation? Not always. Some applications with strict non-functional requirements, such as extreme peak performance, may still derive more benefit from a traditional approach.

What about AI?

Generative AI is playing an increasingly significant role in low code development. AI enables developers to code faster, automate processes and even generate entire applications. This is because low code integrates AI concepts to help developers, engineers and architects proactively ensure quality, security and maintainability in low code software solutions. It also enhances collaboration between business and IT, because it helps translate business needs into technical solutions.

Make the right choice with Cegeka

No code, low code, enterprise grade, high code …? Which is the best fit for your business strategy? We are here to help you make the right choice. How do we do that? We begin every project with a foundation phase: a deep dive into the DNA of your organisation. This gives us a better understanding of your needs and business drivers. We use these insights to select the best development approach - traditional or low code - and the right technology for your requirements.

What are the benefits of working with us? We are not dependent on specific vendors, and, as an independent partner, we can support you throughout the entire process: from implementation and maintenance to expansion and optimisation of your applications. In both the short and the long term.

Please be aware that our software engineers treat low code development in much the same way as traditional software development. We have long relied on an agile, iterative approach: we develop in short sprints, gathering your feedback and continuously testing to minimise the impact on timing. We also make continuous improvements.

We always work very closely with your team: your product owners are part of the development team. We hold daily stand-ups, communicate extensively and transparently, and continuously seek your feedback.