Low-code is a development method that makes building software easier and faster by using visual interfaces and minimal manual coding. Instead of programming entire applications from scratch, users can use drag-and-drop components and pre-configured features to build applications. This lowers the barrier to software development and makes it accessible to both developers and business users without in-depth programming knowledge.
Low-code is not just hype, but the result of years of evolution in software development. The need for faster and simpler development methods arose when companies noticed that traditional software development was often slow, costly and complex.
In the early years of software development, coding was a purely manual process. Developers wrote thousands of lines of code to build even the most basic applications. As companies needed new software faster and faster, tools emerged that helped developers work more efficiently.
The first steps toward low-code began with Rapid Application Development (RAD) in the 1990s. RAD methodologies, such as Microsoft Visual Basic and Oracle Forms, introduced visual development tools that allowed developers to build interfaces and functionality faster.
In the 2000s, the need for even faster software development grew. Companies were looking for ways to build business applications without complex coding. This led to the emergence of Business Process Management (BPM) platforms, which enabled automated workflows and process-based applications.
The current generation of low-code platforms is an evolution of RAD and BPM tools. They combine visual development, pre-built components and automation to dramatically accelerate software development.
A few key milestones in the evolution of low-code:
2000-2010: Emergence of model-driven development platforms that model processes visually.
2014: The term “low-code” was first used by the research firm Forrester.
2015-2020: Growing adoption of low-code in enterprises, with major players such as Mendix, OutSystems and Microsoft PowerApps.
2020-present: AI and automation are increasingly integrated into low-code platforms, further expanding its capabilities.
Today, low-code is seen as a full-fledged alternative to traditional development, especially for business applications, workflow automation and rapid prototyping.
Low-code makes application development easier by using visual interfaces, pre-built components and automation. But what really makes a platform “low-code”?
A low-code platform offers a combination of tools and functionalities that speed up the development process without requiring extensive programming knowledge. Key features include:
Visual development environment - Applications are built with a graphical interface instead of pure code.
Drag-and-drop components - Standard modules such as forms, databases and API integrations can be easily added.
Automatic code generation - The platform generates the underlying code, largely replacing manual coding.
Integration capabilities - Low-code platforms support links to existing systems and external APIs.
Scalability and flexibility - While low-code offers simplicity, developers can still manually add code for custom functionality if needed.
In traditional software development, developers write every line of code themselves. This requires in-depth programming knowledge and often makes the process time-consuming. Low-code automates many of these steps by providing reusable components and visual workflows.
A traditional development process often looks like this:
Analysis and design - Determining functional and technical requirements.
Manual coding - Writing the software in a programming language such as Java, Python or C#.
Testing and debugging - Manual testing and debugging.
Deployment and maintenance - The software is rolled out and updated as needed.
With a low-code platform, this process is faster:
Visual modeling - An application is built with drag-and-drop components.
Configuration and integration - Links to databases and APIs are set up through an intuitive interface.
Automatic code generation - The platform generates the underlying code.
Fast testing and deployment - Applications can be tested and deployed faster.
Although the terms low-code and no-code are often used together, there are distinct differences:
Low-code thus offers more flexibility than no-code, while still being simpler than traditional software development.
Low-code has dramatically changed the way software is developed. But as with any technology, there are both advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of low-code:
Speeds up software development
With a visual interface and reusable components, applications can be built up to 10 times faster than with traditional development. This is ideal for companies that need new software solutions quickly.
Lower costs and less dependence on developers
Since less manual coding is required, companies need fewer specialized developers. This not only saves costs on development hours, but also makes it easier to complete projects within budget and deadlines.
Accessibility for non-developers
Business users without programming knowledge can use low-code to build simple applications. This is also known as citizen development, where employees create their own digital tools without IT dependence.
Rapid iteration and flexibility
Low-code makes it easier to make adjustments and updates, allowing businesses to respond faster to changing market conditions.
Easy integration with existing systems
Most low-code platforms provide ready-made API links for ERP systems, databases and cloud services, facilitating integration with existing infrastructures.
Disadvantages of low-code:
Limitations in customization
Although low-code offers great flexibility, complex applications may still require custom code. Advanced features may still require traditional development.
Vendor lock-in and dependence on platforms
Many low-code platforms use their own technology, which can make switching to another platform difficult. This can result in dependence on a single vendor.
Performance and scalability challenges
Low-code platforms are optimized for speed and ease of use, but can be less efficient than custom-written code. For highly complex or performance-sensitive applications, traditional software development may be better suited.
Licensing costs can add up
Although low-code lowers development costs, many platforms operate on a per-user or per-application licensing model. This can still incur high costs when used intensively.
Low-code is used in various industries to optimize business processes and accelerate digital transformation.
Many organizations use low-code to build internal tools and ERP extensions, such as dashboards, reporting tools and process automation.
Outdated software is often replaced or extended with low-code applications to improve functionality without a complete rebuild.
Low-code enables automation of manual tasks such as invoice processing, customer registration and HR workflows.
Many companies use low-code platforms to quickly develop Web and mobile apps for customers or employees.
There are many different low-code platforms on the market, each with their own specializations and capabilities. Here are some of the most popular options:
Part of Siemens, aimed at both business users and developers.
Suitable for developing complex business applications and integrations.
Strong support for AI and machine learning.
Known for its high level of adaptability and flexibility.
Supports both low-code and pro-code, making it ideal for hybrid development.
Popular in large companies and enterprises.
Part of the Microsoft Power Platform, ideal for companies already working with Microsoft products.
Strong integration with Office 365, Dynamics 365 and Azure.
Focused on internal tools and workflow automation.
Strong in business process management (BPM) and workflow automation.
Suitable for companies working extensively with compliance and regulatory issues.
Supports both low-code and Robotic Process Automation (RPA).
An accessible and user-friendly platform for small and medium-sized businesses.
Part of the Zoho ecosystem, with easy integration with Zoho CRM and other tools.
Focused on rapid internal tool development.
Choosing the right platform depends on an organization's needs. In the next section, we discuss how to select the best low-code platform.
Not every low-code platform is right for every organization. Here are the key criteria to consider when making a choice:
Purpose and type of application.
Internal tools → Microsoft PowerApps, Zoho Creator
Complex enterprise software → Mendix, OutSystems
Workflow automation → Appian
Integration options
Are you already working with Microsoft products? → PowerApps is a logical choice.
Want to interface with existing ERP or CRM systems? → Mendix or OutSystems offer extensive integrations.
Flexibility and customization
Do you need to be able to add custom functionality? → Choose a platform that supports pro-code extensions, such as OutSystems.
Is fast deployment without complex code important? → Zoho Creator is an approachable option.
Cost and licensing model
Some platforms charge per user (such as PowerApps).
Others work with a monthly subscription per application (such as Mendix and OutSystems).
Future-proofing
How often are updates and new features released?
Does the platform support AI, automation and cloud-native applications?
By considering these factors, companies can choose a platform that fits their strategy and technology needs.
Low-code is growing rapidly and becoming more sophisticated. The technology has evolved from a tool for rapid prototyping to a full-fledged solution for enterprise software. But what can we expect in the coming years?
More and more platforms are integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to further optimize processes. AI can help with:
Automatic code generation, requiring even less manual development.
Smart suggestions for application functions and workflows.
Automated testing and debugging.
Low-code enables business users and IT teams to work together. This leads to faster digital transformation as businesses no longer rely on long development cycles.
Whereas low-code was first seen primarily as a solution for smaller applications, it is now increasingly being used for large, mission-critical systems. This means that enterprises are deploying low-code for:
ERP and CRM solutions
Big data and analytics tools
Complex workflow automation
Despite the benefits of low-code, customization remains essential for many companies. The future of low-code lies in hybrid development models, where developers can add pro-code functionality to low-code applications.
So low-code will play an increasing role in software development, but fully traditional development will not disappear. The combination of both will lead to faster and more flexible software solutions.
Low-code has made software development more accessible, faster and more efficient. By combining visual development with custom code, it provides a flexible solution for both small businesses and large enterprises.
Key insights:
Low-code accelerates software development and reduces costs.
It is suitable for various applications, from internal tools to complex enterprise software.
Several platforms are available, each with its own strengths.
The future of low-code lies in AI integration and hybrid development models.
Want to learn more about software development and digital transformation? Then read our other blogs on legacy modernization, software architecture and cloud computing.
Low-code is a method of software development that uses visual interfaces and minimal manual coding to build applications faster and easier.
A low-code developer's salary depends on experience and location, but averages between €40,000 and €75,000 per year. Senior developers with knowledge of specific platforms such as Mendix or OutSystems can earn even more.
Low-code platforms provide a visual development environment with drag-and-drop components and automatic code generation. This allows both developers and business users to build applications without in-depth programming knowledge.
