A low-code app development platform, no-code app development, or Rapid Application Development platform (RAD) is an app development platform that allows for a quick, hand-coding free development of applications. In simple terms, it allows users to develop applications through a simplified process as opposed to the traditional app development process which involves tedious code-writing processes.
The beauty of a low-code development platform is that it enables users without an IT background to develop their apps. Using a graphical interface and preset configuration, anyone can easily learn how to and even create an application.
It’s particularly beneficial to businesses as it provides a mechanism for addressing unique challenges not catered for in the tech world.
That said, below are tips on how to choose the right low-code app development platform. Let’s dive in.
Cross-Platform Support
The application development platform you envision should be flexible enough to create apps that function across various devices and operating systems. Not only does having a cross-platform application give your business a competitive edge, it also makes adoption of the application easier.
This explains why it’s crucial that the app development platform you select supports cross-platform. With it, you can develop apps for mobile devices, web, desktop, or specific operating systems.
Access to Specialist Support
Low-code app development platforms simplify the process of creating apps. They are usually designed for inexperienced users, and users without an IT background, and as such, it hardly experiences technical hitches.
Even so, there are instances where the user may require technical assistance. Could be that the app that has just been developed does not render as it’s supposed to, or could be a knowledge gap.
Such instances will call for referral to experienced personnel, be it from the creators of the platform or an authorized third party like these ones for those using Microsoft Powerapps. The platform you select must be backed by a specialist support team. They will offer assistance in cases where all the internally explored solutions have hit a snag.
Mind the Users of the Platform
Low-code app development platforms come with varying levels of complexity. Some don’t require any technical know-how, while some do.
In most cases, no-code platforms integrate visual tools for the construction of user interfaces, and feature workflows and integration. However, this simplicity renders apps built from these platforms non-flexible. Here, anyone who is willing to put in some practice can learn to use the platform with ease.
On the other hand, some low-code platforms will require a bit of technical configuration to ensure the end product fits perfectly with your business needs. In such a case, you will require someone with experience in app development.
It’s important to understand that this doesn’t mean someone with an IT background, but rather someone experienced in using low-code platforms.
Request a Demo and/or Free Trial
A demo will provide important insights into the mechanisms of the platform you are considering. This is especially important when you are looking for a custom low-code app development platform. A demo will enable you to understand the technical capabilities, architecture, and experience the developers can expect.
Besides a demo, getting a free trial will provide your team with a hands-on experience of the platform. And if a free trial isn’t on the table, you can request the basic version of the low-code platform.
Doing this will enable you to experience the platform in a real-world business environment. You will gain valuable insights into the app development process to user-experience.
Scalability
Businesses grow over time. They also experience high and low seasons. As such, you will need to expand and reduce your workforce depending on the existing circumstances. An ideal low-code platform should allow you to expand and contract with demand.
It should be flexible in a way you can add and remove users, or even change permissions and roles with ease. In the same way, monthly subscriptions should also be commensurate with the existing plan.
Drag and Drop Visual Interface
Low-code app development platforms are designed to help developers create their solutions with ease. Hence the ideal platform is one that has a drag-and-drop visual interface. This means they can allow users to develop applications by adding a visual element to an application template and configure logic by selecting data and actions from a drop-down list.
Conclusion
A low-code app development platform is a must-have for any business or organization that seeks to stay ahead in a competitive tech environment. Getting the right platform will depend on the needs and technical capability of your workforce.
It will also depend on the specifications and features of the platform. Two questions that will help guide your choice are – what do you want the platform to do, and who are the intended users?
