Low-Code vs no-code (and when to use code development)
Stefan Palios • Updated Jun 15, 2022 • 6 min read
Purists | Enthusiasts | Hybrids | |
---|---|---|---|
No-code | No-code is the only way forward. | No-code is fast and fun. | No-code is a great way to experiment. |
Low-code | Low-code is the only sustainable option. | Low-code make development easy. | Low-code makes it easier for newbies to build and learn. |
Code | Code is the only way to handle the complexity of the world. | Code means more ownership and a sense of accomplishment. | Code is the most scalable solution for proven-need technology product. |
Frequently asked questions about low-code vs no-code
The no-code movement is based on a belief that technology should support creation instead of being something sophisticated that has a high entry level. No-code development allows everyone from non-technical people to developers to create software without writing any code. No-code platforms usually have a user-friendly graphical interface (often pre-made blocks), using which, virtually anyone can build a functioning software within a comparatively (as opposed to traditional approaches) short period of time. The overall idea is to democratize software building and allow people with diverse backgrounds to implement and launch their projects without obstacles.
If you have a software development background, low-code will allow you to achieve more in less time. So, you should use it if you don't have the resources to build your project from scratch but still need a certain level of customizability through custom code and have the skills to apply those customizations.
Low-code development is similar to no-code development in that it also allows building at least some part software through a graphical user interface. However, low-code platforms may require coding in some cases on top of the components built without code. The idea is to reduce the amount of traditional hand coding as much as possible to speed up the delivery of applications.
No-code isn't a universal approach, there can be cases when other approaches make more sense. Therefore, each unique case needs to be analyzed to understand what tools and approaches suit the best. However, it doesn't have to be just no-code or just code. Very often a combination of two or more approaches can be the best solution.