When choosing a low-code/no-code platform, consider the user, pricing, integrations, hosting, DevOps, and governance and security.
You’ve decided it’s time to take the plunge: You recognize the power of low-code/no-code and want to take advantage of it. But there are plenty of platforms for doing that, and they all promise you the sky. How to cut through the hype and get to the truth of which one is best for you?
We’ve got answers for you, based on what experts have to say. A great place to turn is the InfoWorld article, “7 keys to selecting a low-code platform.” The article consults experts on the best criteria to use for selecting the best low-code software. Below are some highlights from this low-code buyer's guide.
Understanding Low-Code Developers, Citizen Developers and End-Users
To start, you should determine who will use the platform to develop applications. Not all platforms are ideal for both citizen developers and professional developers. The article notes: “Some low-code platforms are tools for technologists and target people with software development skills. Others are citizen development platforms and empower business analysts or subject matter experts to develop and support applications. Some platforms support both options but have different tools and capabilities for each persona.”
Once you know who will be using the platform, look for what customers have to say about different ones. Make sure to set a high bar, the article recommends: “I want platforms that have rabid fans. To have a great low-code platform, the company has to excel at delivering fantastic end-user experiences, wow technologists with its capabilities, and prove short- and longer-term value to executives.”
Low-Code Pricing and Scale
Next, check out pricing for the one or ones you’re considering, the article says. The platforms typically offer a wide range of options, and they’re often confusing. Some platforms have “end-user pricing, so you pay more for greater numbers of application users or usage,” the article says. Others base pricing on the development scale. Make sure you get clear, direct answers. And the article warns, “While many offer easy onramps to trials and developing proofs of concept, it’s important to understand the end-state development and production requirements.”
Low Code Software Technical Features and DevOps
Once you’ve done that, see how well a platform handles integration with enterprise systems, databases, APIs, cloud storage, and third-party data sources. A low-code/no-code platform is only as good as its integration capabilities, so make sure to choose one with the most comprehensive set of integrations.
Now it’s time to review hosting, DevOps, and governance options in much detail as you can. Look for one with the most robust hosting options. For DevOps, check out things such as support for the full development cycle, continuous integration/deployment, and an agile development process. And the article adds, “review the platform’s citizen development governance options if you plan to empower people in business units to build and support applications.”
Low-Code App Security
Finally, learn about the platforms’ compliance and security requirements, and see how that matches your needs. Check for HIPAA compliance if relevant, auditing capabilities, role-based administration, and security considerations.
For more help, check out the useful blog post, “How To Choose A Low-Code Platform.”
The Ideal Low-Code/No-Code Platform for You
Whatever you’re looking for, Alpha Software has the ideal low-code/no-code platform for you. You can select the development environment that's right for you, based on your app needs and your skill level. The Company even offers a product that doesn't require you to write code at all.
Alpha TransForm no-code software helps business users or citizen developers craft online or offline mobile apps in minutes. The apps can utilize the latest mobile features (camera, GPS, etc.) for fast, accurate data capture. Developers can even tie the apps into business process management systems. Get the no-code app builder.
Alpha Anywhere low code app development software has the unique ability to rapidly create applications and mobile forms with advanced features. These apps offer outstanding customer experiences and can easily access and integrate with any database or web service, and can exploit built-in role-based security or robust offline functionality. Build low-code apps for free.
Comment