Evaluating a Low-Code Platform

But with such a range of low-code development platforms, it can be a daunting task deciding which one is right for your needs. Which vendor offers the greatest flexibility? Will their platform integrate with your existing solutions? These are some of the important questions you may be justifiably concerned about.

In this guide, we’ll outline some of the key considerations when deciding on a low-code platform, giving you the knowledge to make an informed choice.

Identify your Low-Code goals and user use:

Low-code development offers solutions to a range of unique challenges; from niche IT problems to company wide issues. Countless businesses have decreased their technical debt after adopting a low-code platform. However, low-code should not be seen as an unqualified method of solving every IT demand – or simply increasing the bottom line. It is important to have a clear focus on what you want to achieve. For many organisations the main goal is speed, while for others it’s about having the autonomy to design their own solutions. If you want to judge industry-specific examples of a vendor’s low-code platform in action, be sure to evaluate their use cases.

You should also have in mind who will be using the platform, and whether it offers the scaffolding or scalability that particular users may require. Some more esoteric platforms will require developers for all but the simplest use cases, while others will be too rigid for mission-critical or enterprise-grade apps. This leads on fittingly to our next consideration.

Does it take a 'Hybrid approach'

Many vendors tend to dwell on the tensions between low-code and no-code. Some emphasise the power of low-code, while others highlight no-codes’ superior accessibility and ease-of-use. In reality though, the two combined will likely offer the most versatile, collaborative platform.

A hybrid platform merges the visual development of no-code with low-code’s potential to design robust apps for enterprise-wide use. Businesspeople are empowered to build their own solutions, while professional developers are not restricted by rigid frameworks that entirely remove coding.

This makes hybrid platforms like Plant an App’s the ideal solution for businesses with varying requirements and development aptitudes. Having no-code functionality alleviates the reliance on IT professionals, allowing you to tap into your wider talent pool instead. With a comprehensive low-code/no-code package, you can therefore combat the deficit of skilled coders, while also augmenting the abilities of your dedicated developers.

Assess the platforms scalability:

As well as being able to fulfil the current functions you have in mind today, the ideal low-code platform will provide you the scope to address the issues of tomorrow. 

However, not all low-code platforms are designed equally. Some platforms will accommodate an organisation’s evolution, while others will have a low ceiling that confines expansion. When deciding on a platform, it is important to know if it will support your organisation’s future growth and facilitate a range of business solutions – even those you may have not foreseen yet.

Ensure that a vendor allows you to introduce more users, while also giving you the option to allocate specific user roles within your organisation. A sophisticated cloud-based system will offer the most optimal long-term scaling, empowering you to meet even the most taxing of customer requirements.

Consider how integrable the platform is:

The majority of organisations will want to leverage low-code as part of their wider IT strategy, rather than in silos. It is therefore important to ascertain whether a platform can blend seamlessly with pre-existing solutions and architectures.

If a platform doesn’t have the flexibility to fit into your ecosystem, it can become a detriment rather than a business boon. Instead of increasing productivity and streamlining workflows, less adaptable low-code tools will eventually create roadblocks for developers, causing them to start over with their existing coding methods. Frustrating, right? 

Plant an App keeps developers in mind by allowing them to plug in their custom code, as well as making use of advanced integration capabilities to easily connect with other systems. This means you can enjoy end-to-end integration from Day 1.

Don't comprise your standards of governance

While low-code tools can be a blessing, some platforms may pose issues with an organisation’s security and data governance. You may start to see control slip away if user-roles are not clearly definable, or if accidental damage can’t be minimised. Look out for low-code platforms that offer appropriate user-restrictions, as well as cloud-based architectures that can effectively isolate and mitigate any mishaps.

A correctly implemented low-code platform – and one equipped with preventive safety mechanisms – will provide you the autonomy needed to maintain control.

Scrutinise the user experience and product support

Although a platform’s UI may not necessarily be your first priority, obtuse and clunky interfaces can undermine the value of a low-code tool investment. The best low-code platforms will boost developer productivity, while offering a frictionless customer experience across all digital touchpoints.

Ideally, your vendor’s product support will be equally focused. Providers that demonstrate they have a long-term strategy, and a constantly evolving platform, are the ones to look out for.

Rather than being a one-way channel, Plant an App’s customer-driven, low-code service thrives from user feedback and shared learning. Our users benefit from continuous updates and ever-evolving libraries, and even opportunities to speak with product experts. 

Final thoughts

Low-code is not just a “market,” but an incredible resource that empowers a broad pool of people to rapidly turn concepts into working apps. 

Differentiating itself from other vendors, Plant an App is a powerful low-code platform that grants speed and accessibility, yet without compromising the scope and scalability of custom coding. Across all stages of an app’s lifecycle, you can expect a seamless experience that brings developers on board from the get-go.

With a range of successful use cases across different sectors, as well as a comprehensive demo, Plant an App is here to guide your digital transformation. All you need is an idea to grow.