No Code is a platform that allows users to build software applications, such as web and mobile apps, without having to write code. This means that no prior coding knowledge is needed to develop and deploy a program. It is a fast growing alternative to traditional computer programming, and modern businesses are using it to build full-fledged applications.
How does No Code work?
No Code is a form of visual programming whereby users develop programs using graphics and figures. Programmers use drag and drop components to form parts of the entire application. This means that you don’t type commands verbatim. No Code allows non-programmers to build applications and web pages without having to learn to code.
Nonetheless, No Code platforms vary in terms of functionality and integration. It depends on the niche of the market.
Difference between No Code and Low Code
Some users think that No Code and Low Code are mostly the same, but there are some significant distinctions between the two.
- No Code uses a model-driven approach, while Low Code focuses on developing model-based software.
- No Code users can build apps without modifying the underlying code base, while weak code users require input from a developer in parts of the development process.
How is an application without code created?
You might be wondering if developers need to know if people can build apps without having to code. Well, the developers still do all of the coding for you. You just can’t see it when using No Code. No code component is coded for reuse and scaling so users don’t have to do any coding themselves.
Features of No Code
Graphical user interface builders
This allows users to drag and drop components to form a web page tailored to their needs. Items available include headers, forms, and tables. Once a user has completed the layout of its components, they will preview how the webpage will look on a smartphone, desktop or tablet.
Visual modeling
Visual modeling works the same way using a graphical user interface generator. It is a drag and drop interface using graphical and textual designs to build functional applications.
WYSIWYG Editors
Most codeless platforms use WYSIWYG (what you see is what you get) web builders for to design, assemble, and build applications. However, WYSIWYG is quite different but related to No Code. The two should not be confused into one.
Reuse
This is a feature that allows users to design a single item and reuse it as many times as they want in their application. This saves users time by not having to start from scratch when designing an element.
Advantages of No Code
No code is do not too good to be true, know that the benefits of using it are certainly real!
1. Easy to use
No Code allows businesses to deploy internal and external workflows without having to hire a seasonal programmer. It is fun to create apps without code and does not require any maintenance. This encourages the rise of citizen developers and reduces the backlog in the IT department.
2. Agile
Building applications using predefined modules is much faster than traditional programming. In addition, automated testing reduces development time. It streamlines the digital transformation process. Users can quickly implement their ideas and meet customer needs without having to code.
3. Reduction of IT costs
Software development is expensive, given the limited number of developers available. No code platform saves money on the money that would have been used to hire a third-party development partner. It automates programming by visualizing business processes and helps design user screens efficiently.
4. Make software development more accessible
No Code gives more people the ability to create software on their own without learning to code or relying on developers. This is also the answer to the current very high demand for software developers.
Disadvantages of No Code
There are some very noticeable drawbacks to using No Code that should be taken into consideration.
1. The source code is inaccessible
The complete implementation of the user’s application remains hidden and maintenance relies entirely on the No Code development platform. Often times, the issue of owner lockout arises when a user wants to change providers. Since they do not own the source code, the original vendor may prevent them from doing so or make the cost of change very high.
2. Security risks
No code platform is subject to third-party data monitoring or security auditing of their systems. In addition, the user has no control over the technology stack. Any vulnerability on the platform vendor side critically affects the user’s application. Worse, if the platform provider experiences a security breach or liquidates, the user pays the price.
3. Lack of visibility
The biggest challenge with No Code is its lack of visibility. An employee can develop an application using RAD (Rapid Application Development), which IT cannot see. Cloud platforms have proven to be a solution to this problem. It improves visibility, provides access and is more secure.
4. Many limitations
No code platform has limits when it comes to mobile or web app development. Most platforms focus on working and quick solutions to a single problem and pay little attention to UX (User Experience). No Code platforms only offer rigid models that can be configured by rearranging the blocks to meet a limited set of possibilities. This keeps the user from thinking out of the box and they are forced to resort to expensive workarounds.
No code platform
Numerous No Code development platforms exist today, and new entrants are regularly entering the market. Most platforms specialize in creating mobile or web applications.
In many cases, No Code platforms rely on Google Sheets as the back end because it is much easier to build a UI around it. Below are some of the notable No Code platforms in the market.
- Microsoft Power Apps for mobile and web apps.
- Oracle Visual Builder for mobile and web applications.
- Oracle Application Express for line of business applications.
- Salesforce Lightning Platform for customer relationship management.
- AppSheet for mobile apps and web apps.
- Appy Pie for mobile apps and web apps.
- Speech bubble for web applications.
Conclusion
Before choosing No Code for your next development project, consider the pros and cons. Although the program allows the layman to program without code, you can feel more secure by hiring a developer. Still, No Code certainly paves the way for easy programming.