Many people are unable to differentiate between low-code and no-code. Sometimes, users describe them in exactly the same way. This begs the question, does it really matter? What exactly are the differences between them? The answer is that it does matter and that the differences are vast.
What is Low-Code?
A simple definition of low-code is to say that it is a block-based, drag-and-drop coding language that requires a minimum of hand-coding. It uses the basics of coding logic that are common to various coding language, so it is not best suited to those who have zero coding experience. However, it does not require extensive understanding of one language or another.
Low-code takes many forms. There are low-code development platforms that enable users to create apps with little coding experience. These help companies to ensure seamless collaboration in app development. You can create apps faster and at a lower cost than with hand-coding.
Additionally, there are low-code business solutions, like Integrate.io's own ETL (Extract, transfer, load) software. This means that virtually anyone can work with software which would normally require advanced coding knowledge in order to use.
However, low-code software will still generally require some understanding of coding logic. This is the main difference between low-code and no-code.
What is No-Code?
No-code is the ideal solution for many business owners. It is a fairly recent innovation since its development commenced at roughly the same time as with low-code. It enables users to make apps or use particular software with absolutely no coding knowledge. While users do need to apply some form of coding logic, no-code platforms simplify the logic and the processes enough to to make this type of development accessible to anyone.
You can use no-code to create many of the same apps as low-code. Most platforms have optimized no-code for business use. Instead of paying for highly-specialized developers to create apps, businesses can have inexperienced coders develop apps in a shorter amount of time than they would normally require.
Because of the confusion between low-code and no-code, it is difficult to find statistics that are specific to no-code. 23% of developers on a global scale were using low-code solutions for app development in 2018. That number is only expected to increase considerably in the next few years, and no-code is part of the same trend.
No-code Development Platforms (NCDPs) are becoming a preferred tool for app development, and in many cases business are choosing no-code over low-code. While they may have some limitations, providers are increasing the use cases for no-code every day. No-code platforms are by far the easiest solution to use. However, is no-code really better than low-code?
Low-Code vs. No-Code?
Low-Code
Pros:
Cons:
- May require some knowledge of coding languages
- Is more complex than no-code
- Requires training to employees in order to use the platform
No-Code
Pros:
- Easy for everyone within the organization to use
- Doesn't require training of new employees on the platform
- Greatly simplified interfaces
- No-code is usually for: businesses without a data engineering team or developers, business consultants, data analysts, and small to medium sized businesses.
Cons:
- Limited functionality
- Primarily or solely intended for business use
So between low-code and no-code, which is better? The honest answer is that it all depends on your business needs.
No-code platforms were specifically designed for anyone to use.They offer a wide range of features. The main drawback is that no-code generally does not enable the use of code in cases where a developer simply cannot get the desired functionality.
Low-code, by contrast, enables users to employ coding languages if necessary to create virtually anything. However, this does not mean that low-code is always better. For totally inexperienced users, no-code may be a necessity.
Related reading: The Top 5 Benefits of Low-Code Development Platforms
When it comes to using ETL software or similar business solutions, some businesses would prefer an absolutely seamless process without any possible issues in communication and collaboration. The best way to do this is with a no-code platform. However, some businesses need that extra layer of functionality and control that low-code platforms offer.
Low-Code vs. No-Code for Your Business
No-code is an important business solution that no one should overlook. When it comes to various types of business-related software, you can use no-code to build important solutions. Low-code is still worthwhile, however, offering much greater versatility. While users should expect to face a greater learning curve, professional developers can turn to low-code to do virtually anything they would normally do with hand-coding. Low-code platforms also can scale with your data as your business grows.
This is why Integrate.io has developed an ETL solution that allows for low-code and no-code depending on your business needs. To implement a low-code or no-code platform into your business, contact Integrate.io today to speak with our team and get a free 7 day trial.