Low code development is changing the way businesses operate, and democratising conventional methods of developing applications. According to Gartner, it will be used in 65% of all app development functions by 2024, with two thirds of big companies relying on at least four low code platforms. A study by Forrester has also predicted that the market value for low-code development platforms will skyrocket, going from just $3.8 billion in 2017 to $21.2 billion by 2022.
But what exactly is low code development, and why is it becoming so valuable to businesses?
Low code is a visual development approach to application building that doesn’t require traditional hand-coded computer programming. Instead, users with little-to-no coding skills can build custom applications for databases, proprietary business processes and web apps through graphical user interfaces (GUIs) and configuration. The types of software used to create these apps are collectively known as low code development platforms.
Rather than outsourcing the development of applications, providing those with direct need the ability to create them is much more efficient, with fewer people and steps in the process. Eradicating the need for coding allows companies to accelerate the creation of essential software and applications.
Being able to build apps in a shorter amount of time decreases costs, and allows a company’s IT and software development resources to be freed up for higher value activities.
Low code development lessens the burden on IT teams by removing much of the ongoing maintenance of applications, enabling those close to the activities to conduct the enhancements and modifications.
Low code development platforms enable businesses to better adapt and respond to market changes. Companies can quickly respond and implement adaptations to tools and algorithms they use, rather than wait for their developers to provide these. In a rapidly changing business environment, this can provide an immediate advantage.
There are various low code platforms that make use of existing Excel files to create applications. Excel applications that involve capturing input data can be quickly and easily converted into database-backed applications.
If spreadsheets include formulas and algorithms, quite often they cannot be used as these must be converted into a format suitable for the platform. This process can be tedious and time-consuming and eliminates all of the benefits of low code systems.
EASA is unique in the low code space due to the ability to build an application that allows formulas and other logic to remain within the spreadsheet and be used as part of the application. There is no need to rewrite or reformat any formulas or logic, as the spreadsheet is an integral part of the overall application. This ensures all of the low code benefits remain and web applications can be created quickly and easily.
