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What are the differences between low-code and no-code platforms?

We generally associate development with endless lines of incomprehensible code. This perception is rooted in the technical nature of development. Even today, businesses hire agencies & developers to create and manage websites, apps, and other online properties.

The last few years have seen a significant shift when it comes to development across all verticals. CMS platforms like WordPress have become more powerful and easier for an average, non-tech professional to use.

Furthermore, the rise of app makers has meant that anyone can create an app with the right online app creator in minutes.

AppMySite is an example of the same.

Coding is no longer the big stumbling block it once was. There are various platforms which cut down or completely eliminate the technical nature of coding.

Broadly, these platforms can be classified as low-code and no-code platforms

Overview

  1. What are low-code platforms?
  2. What are no code platforms?
  3. Which option is better for development?
  4. Frequently asked questions

What are low code platforms?

A low-code platform is essentially a graphical interface where users can build software instead of a traditional manual coding environment.

Low code platforms help businesses create and deploy applications at a much faster rate compared to traditional development. Generally, these platforms contain drag and drop features that initiate automatic code generation.

The last few years have seen low code platforms expanding into several areas of software development. Platforms like Appian and Creatio now serve many different use cases, thus helping companies create many kinds of functional software with little to no coding.

One of the main areas where low code platforms have become prevalent is app development. Smartphone usage has been trending up for more than a decade. Since apps are the best medium to interact on smartphones, it makes sense that businesses are looking for better solutions to build apps.

Low code platforms don’t involve traditional coding practices, but some amount of coding is involved.

WordPress is a good example of a low-code platform. It enables users to build websites with great ease without a lot of coding. However, there is a code editor within WordPress which you can use to customize your website. While you can build a great WordPress website without any form of coding, there is still a module you can use to code some features into the website.

Generally, this is not required as WordPress has a huge plugin marketplace which solves most of the custom needs of website owners.

This highlights a key trait of low code platforms. While they do enable users to build applications without programming, they do contain a coding component in their build.

Here are some advantages of low-code platforms:

  • Fast development: Building software takes time. Low code platforms allow automatic code generation for defined tasks that accelerate development.
  • Low cost: Traditional development is expensive because it requires a ton of technical expertise. Low-code development is simpler, and thus requires less investment.
  • Smart risk management: Low cost also means low risk. Making a big investment in traditional development is not viable for all businesses. Low code development enables businesses to invest in software app development with greater confidence and peace of mind.

What are no-code platforms?

No-code platforms, much like low code environments, do not require coding for software application development. The key striking difference is that no-code platforms involve no coding at all.

AppMySite is a good example of a no-code platform. You can use the free app maker to create an app without writing a single line of code.

Like any no-code platform, AppMySite doesn’t have any module or section that involves programming. Users can use simple point and click options to create an app using their WordPress websites.

Over the years, no-code platforms have also become more powerful and better at serving a variety of use cases.

The app development space is a good case in point. The growth of app builders has made it possible for businesses to launch apps without investing a large chunk of their resources. These platforms furthermore make it easy to manage apps once they’re live on the app stores.

Here are some of the advantages of no-code platforms:

  • No coding: For professionals with no experience in programming, even low code can be challenging. No-code platforms are built for people to deploy applications without any coding.
  • Easy learning curve: Since there’s no coding involved, the learning curve is reasonably small, making development easier.
  • Designed for specific use cases: No-code platforms are often designed for specific use cases, making it easier for users to know whether the solution will work for them. AppMySite, for instance, is focused on app development for WordPress website owners.
  • Fast and affordable: Development is fast on no-code platforms because there’s no need to write any manual code. These platforms are also generally more affordable compared to traditional development alternatives.

Which option is better for development?

There is no general answer to this question. Both low code and no code platforms have their uses. In some cases, low code platforms are a better alternative.

WordPress for instance is the perfect platform to build websites. Even though it has a small coding component, it still makes it easy for website owners to build apps seamlessly. The proof is in the numbers as well, as more than a third of the websites in the world are run on WordPress.

Similarly, some use cases are best designated to no-code platforms. App development is much easier on no-code platforms because of its complex nature, and the availability of powerful tools.

So which one is better?

Low code platforms are ideal when you wish to build a standalone software or portal which imports data from various third-party sources. Low code platforms are built to enable multiple integrations with great ease.

No-code platforms are perfect for front-end applications. For instance, if you wish to turn your WordPress website to an app, and offer users a native mobile interface for your website, no-code platforms are ideal.

Ultimately, the choice between the two rests on your specific needs. If you don’t have a lot of technical expertise, no-code platforms make more sense, especially if you have a front-end application in mind.

Why does AppMySite offer no-code development?

Build an app with AppMySite

AppMySite is an Android & iOS app maker that enables WordPress website owners to build mobile apps. As a user, you might have noticed that AppMySite does not ask users to enter any kind of code in any module.

One big reason AppMySite offers no-code development is accessibility. Even low code platforms involve some level of coding. It is thus not straightforward for businesses with less technical resources to leverage low code platforms completely.

This is why no-code platforms make more sense, especially for app development. Users should be able to extract the most out of a platform, irrespective of whether they know programming or not.

As an AppMySite and WordPress user, you can build apps without worrying about programming. This can give you more time to focus on growing your app, and worry less about development.

Frequently asked questions 

Have questions about low-code and no-code tools? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions.

How are low-code and no-code platforms different?

Low-code and no-code platforms have one major difference – code. Every low-code platform has a one or more modules that involve some form of coding. WordPress for example has a theme editor in its admin panel that allow you to customize your website by editing its code directly. 

On a no-code platform, you don’t need to write any code. All the workflows in a no-code platform are automated. You only need to use point-and-click features to add functionality to your application. 

Are low-code and no-code platforms the future?

Let’s take a look at low-code & no-code statistics for some context. Businesses have experienced 75% reduction in development time with the help of low-code and no-code tools. Furthemore, nearly 84% of businesses have already stared using no-code and low-coe technologies. 

Which is a better option for building a native mobile app – low-code or no-code?

No-code tools are a better option for businesses that don’t have ample technical resources. These tools don’t require you to write a single line of code and automate the entire process of development. You can use simple features to add new features, design the app, and so on. 

In conclusion

Both low code and no code platforms are geared towards making development faster and more affordable. Off late, these platforms have become much more powerful and have begun to usurp traditional development in many major verticals.

This article discusses the key differences between low code and no code platforms. Both have a lot of scope to grow more and further simplify development.

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