Low-Code
The idea behind low-code development is to enable people without extensive programming skills to develop software applications in order to solve the bottleneck of IT resources. This is made possible by tools, so-called low-code platforms, with which users can "click" applications together instead of having them developed by a development team. The motto is "configure instead of program."
How extensive the programming skills need to be for the usage of low code depends on the platform used and the complexity of the applications.
What is a low-code platform?
To enable the development of software applications with minimal development skills, a tool is needed to generate the code for frontend, business logic and backend. These tools are called platforms in the LowOps environment. They usually have these components:
- An editor to create user interfaces.
- An editor for designing logic and business processes.
- A data layer for defining business entities.
There are a multitude of LowOps platforms. Some are available as a cloud service, while others are installed on-premises. In addition, the platforms have different focuses. To name a few:
- SAP Build Apps
- Simplifier
- Salesforce Lightning App Builder
- Power Apps (Microsoft)
- Oracle APEX
What are the benefits of low-code development?
Using low-code platforms opens up a whole new range of possibilities for companies of all sizes:
- Companies with their own software development can take the pressure off them, as even "laymen" can develop good-looking and functioning applications.
- Companies that are not yet that far advanced in their digitization can digitize processes and offerings without much ramp-up.
In addition, low-code offers these advantages:
- Acceleration of development, as applications can be developed directly by subject-matter experts.
- Addressing the skills shortage, as non-professional developers can also develop applications.
