Whether you prefer to write all your software in-house or outsource your applications development, the benefits of doing so are clear. In an environment where every developer is empowered with the latest tools and coding standards, no-code development is something that can be implemented almost immediately.
However, implementing no-code development processes can be a slow process and not every company is equipped with the right resources. How much time will you spend on it? And how much value will it add to your project?
Let’s take a look at why and how you should implement no-code development practices.
What is no-code development?
No-code development is a process in which the majority of an application is written in a declarative language known as an “off-the-shelf” language. In other words, it is not developed with tools or standards specific to the given application.
This may seem like a good idea at first glance, but there are several downsides to this approach.
Why do companies adopt no-code development practices?
When faced with a new project, it is tempting to instantiate a development process that is best-suited to your company’s needs. However, doing so may result in a more complex application, with extra work and added expenses.
Given the rising popularity of cloud-based applications, with their growing adoption comes a desire for developers who can complete applications in a more scalable way.
The need for speed is understandable, but it should be balanced against the potential for extra work and increased expenses.
How to implement no-code development
To implement no-code development, you will need to: – Pick an off-the-shelf language – Use a development environment specific to the language – Pick a code standard – Implement the core technologies required by the application – Test the application – Repeat the process for each new technology, standards or feature added to the application
No-Code Development Benefits
– Pimple-free development: The concept of writing software in an off-the-shelf language removes the need to invent new tools or develop specific skills.
– No understanding of code: The focus is on expressing the business logic in a declarative way. As such, no-code development can be applied to all areas of development, including design, testing, and documentation.
– Lean methodologies: In its most basic form, no-code development relies on a minimal amount of technology. – Simplicity: By choosing an off-the-shelf language, developers are able to focus on the features of the application, rather than its underlying technology.
– Flexibility: Because apps written in a specific language can easily be translated to another, developers can take any approach they choose as long as the technology remains the same.
– Minimum investment of time and money: By not specializing the development process, no-code development may seem like a quick and easy way to add features. However, due to the efforts required to fully implement the techniques, the time spent and the amount of value added will vary from project to project.
Final Words
No-code development may seem like a good idea on the surface, but before you implement it, consider the following:
– What are the benefits of no-code development?
– What will be your primary responsibility?
– The implementation of no-code development is a slow process
– What is the plan?
– How will you know if it is working?
– Consequences of not implementing no-code development.
As with any new practice or tool, implement it slowly and carefully. As the saying goes, “better late than never.”