What are no-code / low-code solutions all about?

“No-code” and  “Low-code” web solutions are very fast growing alternatives for time and cost consuming web development processes. They allow non-developers to create, deploy, and manage applications using a visual, drag-and-drop interface rather than writing the code by hand. For the sake of simplicity and since most tools allow additions of custom written code, I am from now on going to refer to them as “low-code” solutions. - Imagine a bag of  lego, where each block is a UI element like a heading, paragraph or image. All you need to do  is to take the desired element  and drag it into your website. Is it that simple? Yes and… no. Let me explain.

Some More Context 

I had an opportunity to use Webflow to create a website for a real client. In 2023 Webflow is one of the most advanced low-code solutions. One of our clients wanted needed  a simple website for an upcoming marathon event. Normally we would use one of the Jamstack approaches, that is use a static site generator and a headless CMS for this kind of task. But that time we decided to go with Webflow. 

The Advantages of Low-Code Solutions 

One of the main benefits of low-code solutions is that they require minimal coding knowledge (duh), making them well-suited for non-technical users, such as designers, business analysts and managers. This allows for faster and more cost-effective application development, as well as greater collaboration between IT and business teams.  Additionally, many low-code platforms include pre-built templates and components, which can be huge time-savers and thus further speed up the development process. Here is a list of other advantages I found while using low-code solutions. 

• UI: in simple UI toolbox with predefined HTML elements

• Predefined styles: It’ already all set for you, you just need to pick what you want

• SEO: well prepared for very quick management of SEO data

• Responsive design: by default you have predefined breakpoints for modern screen sizes, which you can also easily customize.

• Add custom CSS and JavaScript: You can always still  manage the styles yourself in CSS or add some JavaScript for additional functionality  

• Amazing, often free community templates

The Disadvantages of Low-Code Solutions

One of the main cons of low code solutions is that they may not be suitable for all projects. Complex or custom functionality can be difficult or impossible to achieve with a low code platform and in these cases, traditional code-based programming may be a better option. Here are some problems I personally encountered:

• Dependency on the low-code platform: If a business decides to switch to a different solution or in-house development, it may be difficult to extract and transfer the data and functionality created on the low code platform.

• Limited in terms of customizability and flexibilityL Low-code solutions may not allow for full control over the application's design and functionality. Thus businesses may be limited to the features and functionalities offered by the platform.

• Unforeseen costs: In long lasting projects, the advantage of cost to turn into a disadvantage  if the low code solution  requires a subscription or licensing fee, which can be quite high especially for larger companies.

Conclusion

Low code solutions offer a convenient, cost-effective, and efficient way to develop applications. They are suitable for businesses of all sizes, and can be used to build a variety of apps, from simple to more complex. However, they may not be suitable for all projects, particularly those that require  custom functionality.It is also important to evaluate the scalability and security of low code platforms before committing to them. In the end, it is important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

You don’t have to use the low-code tool yourself though. Just like the client I mentioned above, you can have us at thirty3 create a product for you. That way to benefit from both the low-cost and short development time, while not having to deal with the potential drawbacks of low-code solutions as we’ll take care of them.

Did I peak your interest? Click here to schedule a free consultation call with thirty3.