What is Low Code? Ultimate Guide to Low-Code Development

In this guide, we’re diving into everything you need to know about low code development. We’ll cover the definition of low code, its applications, and the benefits it offers. You’ll learn about low code technology, how it works, and why it’s becoming a crucial part of modern app development.

Whether you’re new to low code or looking to deepen your understanding, this guide will provide valuable insights into this innovative approach to programming.

What is low code development and why is it important?

Low code development is a method of building software applications with minimal hand-coding. Instead of writing thousands of lines of code, developers use visual interfaces and pre-built modules.

This makes app development faster and more accessible, allowing businesses to respond quickly to changing needs. The importance of low code development lies in its ability to streamline workflows, reduce costs, and enable faster delivery of applications.

What is low code technology?

So what’s a clear definition? Low code technology refers to platforms and tools that enable the creation of applications through graphical user interfaces and configuration rather than traditional hand-coding. This technology simplifies the development process, making it easier for non-technical users to contribute to app creation.

What is low code development?

Low code development involves using a low code platform to build applications.   These platforms provide pre-built templates, drag-and-drop functionality, and automated workflows to simplify the development process. This approach reduces the need for extensive coding knowledge, allowing a broader range of people to participate in app development.

This is similar, but different to, working with no code development applications.

Who are the low code developers?

Low code developers are professionals who use low code platforms to create applications. They might not have deep programming skills but are proficient in using low code tools to design, build, and deploy apps. These developers often come from diverse backgrounds, including business analysts, project managers, and other non-traditional tech roles.

Low code app development VS Full code development

Low code app development uses visual tools and pre-built modules, making it faster and more accessible.

Full code development, on the other hand, involves writing all the code from scratch.

While full code development offers more flexibility and control, it requires significant time and expertise. Low code development is ideal for rapid application development and for businesses looking to innovate quickly without extensive coding resources.

Low code application development vs zero code app development

Low code application development allows for some coding to extend or customize applications, while zero code development requires no coding at all. Zero code platforms are designed for users with no coding knowledge, offering fully visual interfaces. This section will be fully covered in our article about low code no code development.

For more information on the difference between low and no-code application development here.

Low Code Features

Low code platforms come with a variety of features designed to simplify app development, including:

• Drag-and-drop interfaces
• Pre-built templates and modules
• Automated workflows
• Integration capabilities with other systems
• Real-time collaboration tools
• Scalability options

The benefits of low code programming

Low code programming offers numerous benefits, such as:

• Faster development cycles
• Reduced costs and resource needs
• Increased accessibility for non-technical users
• Enhanced collaboration across teams
• Greater flexibility to adapt to changing business needs
• Improved ability to innovate and experiment

No code platforms also provide a similar range of benefits with even less programming required. To learn more about there, check out our guide here.

Low-Code Use Cases

Low-code platforms offer versatile solutions for a variety of application needs. They enable businesses to quickly develop and deploy applications with minimal coding, making technology more accessible and development more efficient.

Whether you’re looking to streamline business processes, create customer-facing apps, or automate workflows, low-code can be the right choice.

What types of applications can you build with low-code?

Low-code platforms are versatile and can be used to build a wide range of applications, including:

• Enterprise applications: Streamline business processes and improve efficiency with customized enterprise solutions.
• Mobile apps: Develop responsive and feature-rich mobile applications quickly.
• Web applications: Create interactive and scalable web apps with ease.
• Workflow automation: Automate repetitive tasks and workflows to save time and reduce errors.
• Customer relationship management (CRM): Build tailored CRM systems to manage customer interactions and data.
• Business process management (BPM): Design and implement business processes to improve operations.
• Data management applications: Develop tools for data collection, analysis, and reporting.

Examples of low code apps

To read stories of real companies that use Fliplet’s low code app development platform to produce real change, check out their experiences here.

Below, let’s look at some apps you can make to improve your business quickly with low coding app development:

• Inventory management systems: Track and manage inventory levels, orders, and deliveries efficiently.
• HR management systems: Simplify HR processes such as recruitment, onboarding, and performance reviews.
• Customer portals: Provide customers with a self-service portal to access information and support.
• Project management tools: Develop custom project management applications to track progress, assign tasks, and collaborate with team members.
• Event management systems: Organize and manage events, including registrations, schedules, and communications.
• E-commerce platforms: Create online stores with integrated payment processing and inventory management.

How to get started with low code web development

Starting with low-code web development is straightforward and accessible. To get started, first, choose a low-code platform that meets your needs, considering factors like ease of use, scalability, and available features.

Next, define your project requirements by clearly outlining what you want to achieve with your web application and identifying the key features and functionalities needed. Learn the basics of the platform by familiarizing yourself with its tools and capabilities; most low-code platforms offer tutorials and documentation to assist you.

Begin building your application using the platform’s drag-and-drop interface, leveraging pre-built templates and modules to expedite development. Continuously test your application to ensure it meets your requirements, making adjustments and improvements based on feedback.

Once your application is ready, deploy it to your preferred environment and regularly maintain and update it to ensure it remains functional and relevant. By following these steps, you can quickly develop and deploy web applications using low-code platforms, enabling your business to innovate and respond to changing needs efficiently.

Best practices of low code application development

To ensure success in low code application development, follow these best practices:

• Understand your requirements: Clearly define the scope and objectives of your application before starting development.
• Choose the right platform: Select a low code platform that aligns with your business needs and technical requirements.
• Leverage pre-built components: Utilize templates and modules provided by the platform to accelerate development.
• Focus on user experience: Design intuitive and user-friendly interfaces to enhance user satisfaction.
• Ensure security and compliance: Implement necessary security measures and ensure your application complies with relevant regulations.
• Collaborate across teams: Encourage collaboration between business users and developers to align the application with business goals.
• Test thoroughly: Regularly test your application to identify and resolve issues early in the development process.
• Plan for scalability: Design your application with scalability in mind to accommodate future growth and changes.

The challenges of low-code adoption

While low code development offers many benefits, there are challenges to consider:

• Limited customization: Low code platforms may not offer the same level of customization as traditional coding.
• Integration issues: Integrating low code applications with existing systems can be complex.
• Security concerns: Ensuring the security of low code applications requires diligent planning and execution.
• Skill gaps: There may be a learning curve for teams unfamiliar with low code platforms.
• Vendor lock-in: Relying heavily on a specific low code platform can lead to dependency on the vendor.
• Performance limitations: Some low code applications may face performance issues compared to fully coded solutions.

Why use Fliplet for low-code app development

Fliplet offers a powerful low-code platform for app development, providing several advantages:

• Ease of use: Fliplet’s intuitive interface makes it easy for users of all skill levels to create applications.
• Versatility: Build a wide range of applications, from enterprise solutions to customer-facing apps.
• Collaboration: Fliplet enables seamless collaboration between business users and IT teams.
• Scalability: Fliplet’s platform is designed to scale with your business, supporting growth and evolving needs.
• Security: Fliplet ensures robust security features to protect your data and applications.
• Support and resources: Benefit from extensive support and resources to guide you through the development process.

Check out our free tier for developing full web applications here.

The future of low-code development

The future of low-code development looks promising, with several exciting trends and advancements on the horizon. We can expect increased adoption as more businesses turn to low-code platforms to accelerate their digital transformation efforts.

Artificial intelligence will enhance these platforms, enabling smarter and more efficient development processes. Greater flexibility will come with more customization options and advanced features, making low-code solutions even more powerful.

The range of applications will expand, covering everything from complex enterprise solutions to innovative consumer apps. Improved tools for collaboration will make it easier for teams to work together on low-code projects.

Additionally, as the adoption of low-code grows, there will be a stronger emphasis on ensuring robust security measures.

By staying informed about these trends and advancements, businesses can leverage low-code development to stay competitive and drive innovation.

Check out our low code platform today.