Understanding low code technology
Low code technology explained
Low code technology is becoming a game-changer in the software world. It's all about simplifying and speeding up the process of building applications. Imagine putting together an app using pre-built components instead of writing endless lines of code.
One of the big names in this field is Microsoft with its Microsoft Power Apps . This tool allows both professional and citizen developers to create robust applications quickly. According to Gartner, the low code market is expected to grow from $13.2 billion in 2020 to $45.5 billion by 2025, showcasing its rising popularity
Drag-and-drop simplicity
The beauty of low code platforms like Google Sheets and Appian is their drag-and-drop functionality. Users can select components they need for their application and place them where they want, reducing the time spent on development by up to 70%. This method empowers even those with minimal coding knowledge to build functional and efficient applications.
Supporting enterprise-level functions
Low code platforms aren't just for small projects; they support enterprise-level functions. Companies like Amazon and SAP utilize these platforms for developing custom business applications to enhance operations. Forrester's research indicates that 84% of companies have turned to low code tools to meet their software development requirements.
Collaboration between professionals and citizen developers
Low code technology bridges the gap between professional developers and citizen developers. Now, business users can directly contribute to app development, ensuring the final product meets their needs without extensive back-and-forth. According to a McKinsey report, businesses that incorporate citizen developers see a 33% increase in productivity, leading to quicker realization of project goals.
Integration with IoT and AI
With the rise of IoT and AI, low code platforms have adapted to integrate these technologies seamlessly. For example, companies in the healthcare industry use low code solutions to create HIPAA-compliant apps that monitor patient data in real time. Erie Insurance used low code tools to develop an app that streamlines claims processing, demonstrating versatility across various sectors.
Business applications of low code
Streamlining business processes with low code
Low code isn't just another buzzword; it's a lifeline for businesses looking to streamline their operations. Whether you’re a startup trying to make the most of your limited resources or a giant enterprise like Amazon aiming to keep your massive IT structure lean, low code's got you covered.
Let's talk stats. According to Gartner, by 2024, 75% of large enterprises will be using at least four low-code development tools. This trend isn't surprising when you consider the real-time benefits that low-code systems offer. But it's not just about staying trendy. The numbers back it up. Low code platforms can reduce development time by up to 90%, which means projects that used to take months now take mere days.
Integration with existing systems
What if you already have a fully stocked arsenal of tools like ERP, CRM, and other management systems? Good news—the integration capabilities of low code are designed to work seamlessly with these existing platforms.Take Erie Insurance, for example. They managed to integrate SAP-based systems with low-code tools, streamlining their operations without missing a beat. According to Forrester Research, companies that embraced low code for integration projects saw an ROI of 324% over three years.
Customer-focused applications
Customer-centric applications are crucial for keeping clients happy and loyal. Low code allows you to quickly build and iterate customer-focused apps, such as chatbots and service portals. Think of Kaneka: they used low-code platforms to create a customer service app that significantly reduced response times.Low code also makes it easier to add new features or respond to customer feedback without the lengthy development cycles that traditional coding entails. In fact, 70% of IT leaders reported improved customer experience as a primary benefit of low code, according to McKinsey.
Employee management made easier
Your HR department can also reap the benefits of low code. For instance, Solomon Group created an employee management system using low code, dramatically improving their HR operational efficiency. With built-in pre systems, it became easier to track employee performance and manage workloads.HIPAA-compliant healthcare apps are also being developed using low code platforms, making employee data management both secure and efficient.
Real-time data management with low code
Data at your fingertips
Imagine being able to sift through massive chunks of data and make sense of them in real-time. That's what low code platforms bring to the table. With pre-built components and drag-drop interfaces, creating apps that handle complex data analytics has never been easier. This isn't just for the big guys; even small businesses can harness low code tools to stay competitive.
An excellent example of real-time data management is Erie Insurance. By leveraging a low code system, they drastically reduced their claims processing time. According to a study by Forrester, Erie Insurance saw a 50% reduction in processing time, turning what used to be a procedural nightmare into a streamlined workflow.
Data is gold, but any fool can chip away at a block. Processing it in real-time, making sense of complex interactions, and localizing relevant data streams, all without writing tons of code? Now, that's priceless. Stack these functionalities up, and you can see why low code development is shaking up traditional software development.
IoT and healthcare
In the healthcare sector, low code applications aren't just another tool in the box; they're changing lives. Real-time patient data from IoT devices like heart monitors and insulin pumps can be integrated seamlessly into comprehensive management systems. A Gartner report highlights how low code platforms like Appian are well-poised to handle the rapid data influx typical in healthcare settings, ensuring compliance with regulations such as HIPAA.
For example, Kaneka, a healthcare firm, revamped its patient data systems using a low code platform. As a result, they saw a 40% improvement in operational efficiency, according to McKinsey.
Precision and detail in manufacturing
When it comes to manufacturing, real-time data is about more than just efficiency. It's about pinpoint accuracy and predictive maintenance that can save millions. Take Solomon Group, for instance. By deploying low code solutions, they managed to cut down machinery downtime by over 30%. This was achieved through integrating IoT sensors that fed data straight into their low code apps, allowing for real-time adjustments and predictive analytics.
Manufacturing isn't just nuts and bolts anymore; it's data-driven, and low code apps are the new grease that keeps the machine running smoothly. For more on how low code platforms like Mendix are transforming the industry, check out our piece on how low code Mendix is changing the future of software development.
Empowering citizen developers
Democratizing software creation for non-developers
Low code platforms are putting the power of app development into the hands of many, not just those with extensive coding skills. With drag and drop interfaces combining pre built components, citizen developers can create functional applications swiftly. Gartner reported that by 2024, more than 65% of app development will be done by citizen developers, showing a significant shift in the software industry.
Companies like Solomon Group have utilized low code solutions to enable staff outside of IT to build customer management systems, streamlining processes and increasing productivity. Another compelling example is Kaneka, where sales teams have created apps for real time data entry and management, reducing pen-and-paper methods and improving accuracy.
Bridging the gap between IT and business
The empowerment of citizen developers minimizes the IT bottleneck. With low code platforms like Microsoft Power Apps and Google Sheets integration, business units can handle their app development needs without waiting in line for IT support. This collaboration between business and IT leads to more coherent and tailor-made solutions for specific business challenges.
Professional developers aren't sidelined but rather augmented. Their role evolves to focus on more complex and strategic tasks, ensuring that the software's foundational integrity remains high. This symbiotic relationship means that low code development bridges gaps, making the whole process seamless and efficient, alleviating traditional frustrations over app delivery times and specifications.
Companies are already witnessing the benefits. Erie Insurance deployed low code platforms for internal workflow automation, resulting in significant operational efficiencies and error reduction. Integrate closer with company needs, crafting customizable solutions with minimal training and development time.
Case studies: Successful low code implementations
Solomon group’s rapid project management
New Orleans-based solomon group, spotlighted for their work in the live events industry, faced the constant challenge of managing numerous projects and real-time updates. They turned to a low code platform to streamline their project management. This transformation cut down their planning time by 40%, allowing solomon group to deliver events more efficiently.
Bdc’s customer onboarding improvements
The Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) dramatically improved its customer onboarding process using low code solutions. By building custom apps tailored to their unique needs, BDC saw a 50% reduction in the onboarding time, enhancing customer satisfaction and reducing manual errors.
Kaneka’s streamlined operations
Kaneka, a global chemical manufacturing company, shifted towards using low code platforms to automate and streamline their operations. With this adoption, Kaneka managed to integrate various business processes seamlessly, achieving operational efficiency and reducing costs by 30%. Their transition highlights the impactful benefits of adopting low code solutions in traditional industries.
Erie insurance's automation success
Erie Insurance, a major player in the insurance sector, tackled their claims processing delays by implementing low code tools. This shift resulted in a 60% boost in processing speed and a substantial improvement in customer claim experiences. This showcases how low code automation can significantly enhance service delivery in the insurance industry.
Dutch government’s digital transformation
The Netherlands embraced low code platforms to modernize its public services, making them more accessible and efficient for its citizens. By adopting low code development, the Dutch government managed to create numerous public-facing applications swiftly, ensuring that their citizens received timely and effective services. This move not only streamlined operations but also promoted transparency and trust in digital governance.
These case studies emphasize how various sectors leverage low code development for different needs—from project management and customer onboarding to operational efficiency and digital governance. They illustrate the versatility and comprehensive benefits of low code platforms, showcasing real-world applications and outcomes.
Future trends in low code development
Emerging tech and low code
The landscape of software development is continually evolving, and low code technology is right at the forefront. Emerging tech like artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain are increasingly being integrated with low code platforms, creating exciting new opportunities and efficiencies for businesses of all sizes.
Ai and machine learning
AI and machine learning are transforming the way low code applications are built. By enabling predictive analytics and intelligent process automation, these technologies help developers create more responsive and adaptive apps. According to Gartner, by 2024, 65% of applications developed will include an element of artificial intelligence.
Iot integration
Iot is another key area where low code is making a significant impact. Low code platforms now allow developers to easily build applications that can connect and interact with IoT devices. For instance, Amazon AWS offers tools that facilitate the integration of IoT services with low code applications, enabling real-time data collection and processing. This is a major boon for industries like healthcare and manufacturing.
Blockchain and low code
Blockchain technology, known for its security and transparency, is finding its way into low code platforms. Solutions like Microsoft Power Apps now support blockchain integration, allowing developers to rapidly build distributed ledger applications. Forrester reports that the incorporation of blockchain into low code platforms is likely to grow as businesses seek more secure and reliable systems.
Greater focus on security and compliance
With more data breaches and cyber threats than ever before, security has become a top priority in software development. Low code platforms are increasingly offering advanced security features to protect enterprise applications. Platforms like Pega are known for their robust security measures, ensuring compliance with standards like HIPAA for healthcare applications and GDPR for data protection.
Sustainability and low code
Another trend that's gaining traction is the focus on sustainability. Low code platforms can help businesses reduce their carbon footprint by promoting more efficient resource use and energy-saving practices. According to a study by McKinsey, businesses that adopt sustainable practices can see a 20% increase in their profitability. Low code solutions like SAP's ERP systems are geared towards helping companies achieve these sustainability goals efficiently.
Future opportunities
The future looks bright for low code technology. As tech giants like Google and Microsoft continue to invest heavily in this area, we can expect even more innovations and refinements. Gartner predicts that by 2025, low code platforms will account for 75% of all app development. It is clear that the marriage of emerging tech and low code is set to redefine what is possible in the modern business world.
