Is this the time to start experimenting with low-code?
Hey there! I am now evaluating options for speeding up/optimizing the software development in my startup (AI-based writing assistant Linguix.com). The question is: according to your opinion and experience, is this a good time to experiment with low-code? Articles like this one (https://medium.com/optimajethq/low-code-why-is-this-the-time-to-start-7fbb1b44b4b8) assume that yes, but are such tools really sustainable now, or are they still at their early stage, and it will be hard to get any viable results from using them?
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Hi Alex
In theory, low-code tools should allow for faster development of systems using skills that are more readily available at the cost of the tooling and the risk of the project failing due to tooling constraints.
The main value generated by using low-code tools is the time saved. If you don’t have or can’t find the skills to do traditional coding then a low-code tool might be your only option.
However, there are too many variables and risks to consider to just decide that low-code is the answer. Each project will need its own business case based on the
1.Type and complexity of the system to be built.
2. Skills available and cost of those skills.
3. Suitable low-code tools available and cost of the tools.
4. Value of time-saving vs. the risk of project failure due to tooling.
Good use cases for low-code tools are when the project is not super complex, your tool fits the system domain and you don’t have professional developers specializing in the tech stack you need, or, time is of the essence, or, requirements are fluid and will likely result in several iterations before going live.
There are several new low-code platforms offer a modern software experience that enable developers to exercise the control their predecessors missed.
My current favourite is Linx (https://linx.software) - for building backends. It is a general-purpose platform with no limitations on the technology to which it can connect with. It uses visual abstractions of programming concepts to make complex logic easy to build and maintain and most of all, allows unique customisation of your solution.