Low code

Low code is a software development approach in which developers use intuitive graphic tools and embedded functionalities to build and design applications, website, web application. Low code development offers the advantage of expediting the delivery of business applications by reducing the conventional time investment. One notable advantage is its inclusivity, as it allows a broader spectrum of individuals, beyond those proficient in coding, to participate in application development. However, successful implementation necessitates effective governance to ensure adherence to established rules and regulations. Additionally, low code development can result in decreased initial expenses related to setup, training, deployment, and maintenance. .

Overview

Low code development simplifies application creation with visual tools and pre-built components, catering to those with limited coding experience. Traditional coding, in contrast, involves manual code creation for intricate, custom solutions. The choice depends on project complexity and the balance between ease of use and customization.

Low-code development platforms (LCDPs) have their origins in the fourth-generation programming languages and rapid application development tools from the 1990s and early 2000s. Like their predecessors, LCDPs are built on the principles of model-driven design, automatic code generation, and visual programming. The concept of end-user development existed before, but LCDPs introduced new approaches to this type of development. The market for low-code development platforms can be traced back to 2011, and the specific term "low-code" was officially coined on June 9, 2014, by the industry analyst Forrester Research. In 2017, Forbes magazine described both low-code and no-code development platforms as "extraordinarily disruptive.

It's important to differentiate between "low-code" and "no-code" development. "Low-code" involves some coding, whereas "no-code" requires minimal or no coding. This distinction is crucial for selecting the appropriate method based on project requirements and the user's coding abilities..

Use

Due to the impact of the microcomputer revolution, organizations have extensively integrated computers throughout their workforce, leading to the widespread automation of business operations through software applications. The growing requirement for software automation and the development of new applications to meet unique business process demands has placed a significant burden on software developers to create customized applications at scale. In response to this challenge, low-code development platforms have emerged as a solution, enabling the rapid development and deployment of functional applications tailored to an organization's specific process and data requirements.

Security and compliance concerns

Worries about the security and compliance of low-code development platforms are on the rise, particularly in the case of applications that handle consumer data. There are concerns about the security of rapidly built apps and the potential lack of proper governance, which can result in compliance problems. Nevertheless, it's worth noting that low-code applications can also drive innovations in security. When considering ongoing app development, it becomes more feasible to establish secure data workflows. However, it's important to acknowledge that low-code development platforms that fail to implement and adhere strictly to Normalized Systems Theory do not solve the challenge of increasing complexity due to changes. do not effectively address the challenge of rising complexity due to changes.

Addressing security risks in low-code development is crucial. To manage these risks, organizations should implement strong authentication and authorization, encrypt data in transit and at rest, regularly scan for vulnerabilities, conduct code reviews, secure platform configurations, protect APIs with authentication, evaluate third-party components for security, provide security training, implement robust logging and monitoring, ensure compliance and governance, develop an incident response plan, and continuously test for security. These practices help safeguard low-code applications and sensitive data.

Criticisms

There is ongoing debate among IT experts regarding the suitability of low-code development platforms for large-scale, mission-critical enterprise applications.. Some skeptics raise doubts about whether these platforms genuinely reduce development costs or simplify the process. Furthermore, certain Chief Information Officers (CIOs) have voiced apprehension that the internal adoption of low-code development platforms might result in an upsurge of unsupported applications created by shadow IT

Implementing effective low-code governance is essential to address the shadow IT challenge. By establishing clear guidelines and policies for the use of low-code development platforms, organizations can channel development efforts through official channels and reduce the risk of unauthorized applications. It provides a framework for IT professionals and citizen developers to work collaboratively, ensuring that all applications adhere to security, compliance, and quality standards. This proactive approach helps maintain control over the development process and minimizes the potential for unsanctioned applications that can pose risks to data security and operational efficiency.

See also

• List of low code development platforms
• List of low code website builder
• List of low code web app builder