Low-code development platform
A low-code development platform is software that provides a development environment used to create application software through graphical user interfaces and configuration instead of traditional hand-coded computer programming. A low-code model enables developers of varied experience levels to create applications using a visual user interface in combination with model-driven logic. Such platforms may produce entirely operational applications, or require additional coding for specific situations. Low-code development platforms reduce the amount of traditional hand coding, enabling accelerated delivery of business applications. A common benefit is that a wider range of people can contribute to the application's development—not only those with formal programming skills. LCDPs can also lower the initial cost of setup, training, deployment and maintenance.
Though not given a specific name until June 9, 2014, by the industry analyst Forrester Research, the low-code development platform market traces back to 2011.
LCDPs trace their roots back to fourth-generation programming language and rapid application development tools of the 1990s and early 2000s. Similar to these predecessor development environments, LCDPs are based on the principles of model-driven design, automatic code generation, and visual programming. The concept of end-user development also existed previously, although LCDPs brought some new ways of approaching this development.
Use
As a result of the micro computer revolution businesses have deployed computers widely across their employee bases, enabling widespread automation of business processes using software. The need for software automation and new applications for business processes places demands on software developers to create custom applications in volume, tailoring them to organizations' unique needs. Low-code development platforms have been and are developed as a means to allow for quick creation and use of working applications that can address the specific process- and data needs of the organization.Reception
Research firm Forrester estimated in 2016 that the total market for low-code development platforms would grow to $15.5 billion by 2020. Segments in the market include database, request handling, mobile, process and general purpose low-code platforms.Low-code development's market growth can be attributed to its flexibility and ease. Low-code development platforms are shifting focus towards general purpose of applications, with the ability to add in custom code when needed or desired.
Mobile accessibility is one of the driving factors of using low-code development platforms. Instead of developers having to spend time creating multi-device software, Low-code packages typically come with that feature standard.
Because they require less coding knowledge, nearly anyone in a software development environment can learn to use a low-code development platform. Features like drag and drop interfaces help users visualize and build the application
Security and compliance concerns
Concerns over low-code development platform security and compliance are growing, especially for apps that use consumer data. There can be concerns over the security of apps built so quickly and possible lack of due governance leading to compliance issues. However, low-code apps do also fuel security innovations. With continuous app development in mind, it becomes easier to create secure data workflows. Still the fact remains that low-code development platforms that do not apply and strictly adhere to Normalized Systems Theory do not solve the challenge of increasing complexity due to changes.Analyst coverage and crowd evaluation
A Forrester report about low-code development platforms featured a 26-criteria evaluation of low-code development platform providers.An updated Forrester report charting the growth of the low-code market was published in July 2017 highlighting 3 industry trends:
- Growth - the low-code market is forecast to increase to over $21 billion over the next five years.
- Diversification - Two major developing market segments focus on the needs of business developers and of AD&D Professionals.
- Integration - As adoption of low-code expands and businesses look towards technologies like AI, robotics and machine learning, solutions must grow to offer these capabilities.
Forrester published an updated report in August 2018. The report covers key trends including the continuing adoption of low code platforms by enterprise companies and the merging of low code platforms with existing developer tools into a broader application development ecosystem.
Criticisms
Some IT professionals question whether low-code development platforms are suitable for large-scale and mission-critical enterprise applications. Others have questioned whether these platforms actually make development cheaper or easier. Additionally, some CIOs have expressed concern that adopting low-code development platforms internally could lead to an increase in unsupported applications built by shadow IT.Low-code vs. no-code
No-code development platforms are similar to low-code development platforms but require no coding at all.The line between the two is not sharp. However, there are a number of key differences:
- App Creator - No-code platforms are accessible to any end-business user while low-code platforms require professional developers who can work within the platform's constraints.
- Core Design - No-code platforms tend to function off a model-driven, declarative approach where the end user dictates an app's design through drag and drop manipulation or simple expressions. Low-code platforms depend more on hard code to specify an application's core architecture.
- User Interface - No-code platforms most often rely on a preset user interface layer which simplifies and streamlines an app's design. Low-code platforms may provide greater flexibility in UI options at the cost of additional coding and complexity requirements.