In recent years, low-code programming has emerged as a promising approach to streamline software development. While it has garnered attention and support from certain sectors, mainstream adoption has been somewhat slow due to a common perception among some developers that low-code development is a mere “toy” and not a legitimate tool.
In this article, we will delve into the factors that have contributed to low-code programming not receiving the attention it deserves. We set the record straight on these misconceptions that may be holding your organization back from reducing operating cost while taking the efficiency to the next level.
Historical bias
Traditional coding has long been the prevailing method of software development, instilling a bias against alternative approaches. The perception of low-code development as a toy may stem from the belief that “real” developers must build applications from scratch, line by line.
However, imagine building a cabinet using a handsaw, T-square, screwdriver, hammer, and some nails. While the result may be very a very detailed and expensive work of art, the time/effort/cost that went into this project is exponentially higher vs using some prefabricated parts and tools designed specifically for the job at hand. Building any application this way is not efficient nor cost effective.
Fear of job displacement
Similar to the fear that many white collar workforce is feeling with AI, the rise of low-code development has raised concerns among some legacy developers about job displacement. The automation and simplicity offered by low-code platforms may lead to apprehension that their skills could become less relevant.
The reality is that low-code development empowers developers by enabling them to focus on more complex and strategic tasks, rather than getting bogged down in repetitive or routine coding tasks.
From a high level, this reduction enables organizations to be more forward looking and agile while efficiently address their accumulated technical debt resulting from the use of outdated legacy applications.
Lack of awareness
Limited exposure and understanding of low-code platforms can contribute to the notion that they are mere toys. Without firsthand experience or exposure to successful low-code projects, it is easy to dismiss the potential of low-code development as a legitimate tool for developers.
The fact is that modern low-code platforms have evolved significantly, and many leading organizations and enterprises have embraced low-code development as a key part of their software development strategies. Major companies across sectors, including finance, healthcare, and manufacturing, have recognized the value of low-code platforms in accelerating development, improving productivity, and fostering innovation.
Furthermore, the adoption of low-code by these industry leaders indicates its credibility and effectiveness as a development tool. According to Gartner, the low-code market is expected to grow 20% in 2023 to a $26.9B.
Skepticism about customization and flexibility
One concern that developers may have about low-code development is the perceived limitation on customization and flexibility. The fear is that pre-built components and visual interfaces may restrict their ability to fine-tune an application’s functionality and design.
While not all platforms perform the same in this regard, the leading low-code development platforms (such as OutSystems platform currently used by the Lonocode dev team) provide ways to extend functionality through custom code and integrations while allowing for a high degree of customization.
To which, this technology enabled our development team to get the best benefits of both coding worlds. Not only we are able to create the application framework quickly and efficiently using low-code, but we can also fine tune every individual component. We can also create integrations with legacy applications when needed through the use of traditional coding methodology.
Let us help you dispel the myth and find the right fit
While low-code programming has made significant strides in recent years, these misconceptions that we have mentioned above are some of the primary reasons that many organizations have not made the leap towards adoption.
If you have been on the fence due to one of the reasons listed above (or another), we would love to share our experience with you. Fill out this to read a white paper where our dev team reviewed each of the major low-code vendors and goes into the pros & cons of each platform.
