Low Code and No Code are two approaches that make it easier to develop applications through GUIs. The many points in common between the two methods should not overshadow their major differences, particularly in terms of the target group.
Low Code and No Code, two methods to facilitate programming
While the development of new cutting-edge software has long been reserved for skilled programmers, two new approaches attempt to democratize IT to more people : Low Code and No Code. Instead of having to first learn a programming language for years before tweaking new programs and websites via source code, it is thus possible to work on your own projects via a dedicated platform with a visual interface before testing them and then selling them, or using them internally. While Low Code and No Code are often considered synonymous, there are many differences between these two concepts.
What is No Code?
The terms “No Code” and “Low Code” already give a good indication of what characterizes and differentiates the two development alternatives. In the No Code approach, a platform equipped with a drag-and-drop website builder allows you to create complex applications. Instead of working exclusively in source code, the components are made available via a graphical interface to be arranged and used according to individual needs. No in-depth knowledge of programming language or code is required for this: even the uninitiated can complete their own projects from start to finish by investing a little time. The prototype is then tested in detail before being published.
What about Low Code?
Unlike No Code, Low Code is an approach that combines two worlds: on the one hand, known and proven programming by manual coding via the source code, and on the other the construction of a website with a dedicated tool (a Website Builder) equipped with a graphical interface. Like the No Code, the Low Code also goes through a site creation tool but only uses it to facilitate work with the code. THE modeling tools and procedures simplify the use of text-based code, but still require knowledge of one or more programming languages. Similarly, various developed functions are often already included in a Low Code platform.
Low Code vs. No Code, what are the differences?
The differences between Low Code and No Code are often overlooked, primarily because some experts view the latter approach as a bridge between business and IT. This is certainly legitimate, however this shortcut ignores the distinctive characteristics between the two approaches.
Operating mode
This point has already been discussed above: Low Code and No Code work differently. When Low Code platforms include graphical help that helps to implement sometimes complicated known programming languages, No Code platforms aim to detach themselves completely from the source code. Everyone can work from start to finish on their own projects without requiring in-depth knowledge.
Target audience
How the two approaches work also reflects on the target groups of No Code and Low Code. The latter is aimed at people in charge of development and who already know how to code. Using a platform with a GUI is supposed to make their job with the source code much easier. In this case, a good knowledge of the programming language in question is essential. No Code, on the other hand, is for anyone who wants to create their own application software without having to go through a person in charge of development.
Architecture
The two approaches also differ in their architecture. No Code relies on ready-to-use templates, equipped and modified using a site or application creation tool in drag-and-drop mode. Low Code, on the other hand, still uses manual programming as a basis and also orients the architecture according to the code. The developers therefore indicate the way forward through the code, the platform only facilitates the formatting.
Flexibility
Compared to No Code, Low Code can be used much more flexibly. The technique without programming language is certainly simpler to use, but it imposes a relatively rigid framework in which the project can evolve. This is felt in particular on the user interface, which can be designed in a much more flexible and personalized way with additional programming code in the case of a Low Code platform.
How do the Low Code and No Code platforms work?
The basic working methods for No Code and Low Code are similar. Both models are aimed at people who are experts in their field and who therefore know exactly what criteria an application software must meet in order to offer added value to the company. The only difference: where one offers a no-code implementation, the other is done with a mix of manual input and visual interface. Here are the basic steps for creating a No Code or Low Code project.
Design
First of all, the design of any project starts from its finality. This means that it is better first to think carefully about the objective sought by the development of the software. What are the problems or work steps that can be mastered by the program? What function should it have overall? Who will benefit from the completed project and who will use it? What is their level of knowledge? What data and information will be needed to successfully implement the software? So many questions to ask yourself before starting to work on a No Code or Low Code platform.
Workflow
The next step is to plan the workflows and articulate them. For this, the project must be planned in such a way as to best achieve the objectives set, to then be implemented as quickly as possible by the people who are supposed to use it. A sensible approach is to create modules and assign them specific tasks. If you use a No Code solution, these modules are already partly predefined. With a Low Code platform, you will need to create them.
Test phase
The testing phase should cover most of the programming. First testing certain steps independently allows you to quickly form your own idea of how a No Code or Low Code platform works and on possible bugs in use. Then make your prototype available to a group who will test the software from every angle to discover any errors. Once the tests have passed successfully, you can move on to the next step: commercial or internal use of the program or application.
Scopes of Low Code and No Code
Low Code and No Code are implemented in many areas. Some platforms have even specialized in cutting-edge areas to offer tailor-made solutions. Low Code and No Code are particularly widespread in the IT sector, in accounting and human resources departments, in production, planning and logistics.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of Low Code and No Code solutions?
The use of No Code or Low Code has good and bad sides. Here’s what to watch out for when considering using either technique.
Advantages of Low Code and No Code Approaches
- Usability: Both No Code and Low Code take a very user-friendly approach. Many work steps are facilitated by the graphical interface, the work is thus much less restrictive. You don’t even have to learn programming;
- Time saving : Low Code or No Code platforms make it possible to implement projects much faster and manage them internally. This also makes it possible to guarantee a better match between the requirements and the result. Finally, it makes it possible to dispense with long discussion phases or project management meetings;
- Financial gains: these methods also make it possible to make significant gains by saving the sums allocated to professional development, or even by reallocating these precious resources to other sectors.
Disadvantages of Low Code and No Code
- Lack of flexibility: No Code development is done within a rather narrow framework imposed by the structure and the different elements of the work platform. This turns out to be sufficient for simple programs and applications, but quickly shows its limits if you are looking for personalized adaptations that can be done with traditional development;
- Link to the platform: most No Code platforms and some Low Code platforms do not offer the possibility of migration. If you have developed a complete project on a given platform, you will not be able to run it on another system without having to recreate entire sections of the project.
No Code vs. Low Code: summary of the comparison
No Code and Low Code are two promising approaches that are well placed to meet your needs. If you plan to go through such a platform, know that it will greatly simplify your work but that you will still have to count a some adaptation time. In addition, not all Low Code or No Code platforms are suitable for all areas of activity. So try a suitable solution beforehand with a sufficient margin of time to realize its suitability for your project. Many platforms offer free demo versions in freemium for this purpose.
