What is low code/no code? No code /low code more of a boon than a bane

Keito
4 min readSep 1, 2021

Low-code / No-code is a software development approach which allows even users who are not professionally trained (citizen developers) to create applications for various business purposes using simple drag and drop visual components and link them together. It skips the time consuming and costly process of step by step programming and running tests for smooth running of the applications. One of the best and fast-growing example of Low-code/No-code is Robotic Process Automation (RPA). Also, other commonly used applications being the virtual assistant and chatbot.

Using applications based on Low-code/No-code to increase business value is increasing at a fast pace, enabling all small, medium and large organisations to be one step ahead of competition, differentiate their brand and increase earnings.

For e.g.

Even at Keito, our fundamentals has been driven around NEAR TO ZERO coding. We offer our Accounts Payable and Receivable customers with a simple, quick and automated system that will perform not just data entry, but also rule checking, automated approvals, reconciliation, follow-ups. Updates. Making sure we allow businesses to focus on finances and cash flows, not on AP/AR challenges.

Potential Pitfalls of Low-Code/No-Code Platforms

But before any organisation adopts these applications as part of their digital transformation journey it is important to keep a few things in mind and prepare accordingly

  1. Adaptability and speed of implementation

No-code or low-code applications although are easy and quick to develop and implement, if not managed properly can lead to IT complexity. Also since most of them are developed by third parties not hard core trained engineers they can be at risk of security lapses, compliance issues and difficult to scale. Therefore engaging experts, ensuring full compliance with central IT teams and security requirements should be priority before rushing into adoption of these applications.

2. Developer expertise and support

Checking on vendor background, expertise they bring to the fore and involvement during the development stage if not looked into can be a setback in the long run. Businesses also need to check how efficiently these applications integrate into existing systems, level of freedom offered to operate and scalability of the platforms over time.

3. Tailormade

Most of the low-code/no-code platforms are developed for larger size usage, another words usage is limited to fixed templates and modules. Today, consumers are demanding, with preferences changing fast and expect the world of service to pamper them. It would be good practice to first check which vendor can offer more customisation which can match business goals and needs. A good vendor can assist in developing platforms with quick turnaround time, unique, improve user experience and help achieve business goals.

Benefits of using low code/no code platforms for digital transformation of businesses

  1. Actual users get to be a part of the development

No-code/low-code platforms are user friendly and individuals involved in actual business processes can easily be a part of the development process. Also developers get a better insight into how the end user is going to use the final product adding the user friendliness and chances of success.

2. Low turnaround time for both developing and implementing

The current global situation has accelerated the need to organisations to go digital irrespective of their size and scale. These platforms can be developed and implemented in a couple of weeks. Further these platforms reduce total cost of system ownership resulting in improved profits.

3. Optimising IT with business processes/tasks

Mundane repetitive processes can be quickly digitalised using low code platforms involving non IT personnel also, making senior IT members available for more difficult tasks. Making staff directly associated with the workflow to become part of the coding and development process helps develop more efficient platforms and easy acceptance of digital transformation initiatives of organisations.

These platforms offer the creative mind a plethora of innovative options to use data more efficiently, with speed and agility. It provides opportunities for domain experts to participate in the data transformation journey of organisations and contribute in its growth story. The end user feedback and inputs help in optimising the platform’s performance. The low-code, no-code platforms in a period of time will be able to complete the niche deliveries and capabilities. The market has just opened up for adoption.

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