<h2>Introduction To Qodly Apps Templates&nbsp;</h2><p>Accelerate your app development with Qodly! Our platform is designed to speed up the creation process and equip you with advanced tools to build faster, more efficient applications. Dive into development with ease using sample apps, perfect for both learning and as a foundation for your projects. Whether you're starting from scratch or looking for a robust starting point, Qodly has you covered. Choose from a versatile blank template or leverage our feature-rich Qodly sample apps, complete with APIs, to kickstart your development journey. Experience the blend of speed, efficiency, and learning with Qodly – where innovation meets practicality.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><img src="/sites/default/files/blog%20images/templates.png" alt="Open AI template Qodly" width="1583" height="788"><h2>&nbsp;</h2><h2>Sample App: Qodly And OpenAI&nbsp;</h2><p>Artificial Intelligence (AI) isn't just a buzzword – it's a game changer that's reshaping how we approach tasks, and it's not just for developers. You've likely heard about ChatGPT from OpenAI, a testament to how AI is becoming a part of our everyday conversations. But how can AI be practically applied, especially in the world of app development? This is where our latest exploration comes into play .&nbsp;</p><p>Why does this matter? Whether you're testing a new app or showcasing it to potential investors or users, having a robust set of data is crucial. However, generating this data can be time-consuming and complex. That's where AI comes to the rescue.&nbsp;</p><p>In this post, we delve into a proof-of-concept that illustrates how to seamlessly infuse your app with rich data, using AI tools. It’s not just about filling gaps; it's about enhancing the quality of your app testing and demonstrations.&nbsp;</p><p>Get ready to dive into a world where AI meets practical application, making your app development journey smoother and more innovative. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just curious about the intersection of AI and app development, there's something exciting here for you."&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>ChatGPT vs OpenAI API: Understanding the Differences</h2><p>ChatGPT is a variant of the GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) model that has been fine-tuned for natural language understanding and generation in a conversational context. It is designed to engage in text-based conversations with users, providing human-like responses and generating coherent and contextually relevant text. ChatGPT can be used for a wide range of applications, including chatbots, virtual assistants, customer support, and more, where interacting with users through natural language is required.&nbsp;</p><p>OpenAI API is the programming interface that allows developers to access and use the capabilities of ChatGPT and other models provided by OpenAI. It acts as a bridge between the model and developers’ applications, enabling them to send text prompts and receive model-generated responses.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>What’s In It For Me?</h2><p>In the dynamic world of app development, integrating a Rest API with tools like Qodly not only streamlines your workflow but also unlocks new potential. Let’s delve into a fascinating use case to illustrate this synergy.&nbsp;</p><p>Picture this: You're crafting a cutting-edge app. You meticulously model your data, sketch out user interfaces, and map the user journey with Qodly’s intuitive webforms. But there's a hitch – your app needs data, and the usual sources like CSV or JSON files are not at hand, nor do you have the luxury of time to compile and clean a dataset.&nbsp;</p><p>Here's where AI steps in, not just as a tool, but as a transformative ally. Imagine a scenario where you could simply request, "Generate a list of French first names," or "Create typical timesheet comments," and voilà – your database brims with relevant, ready-to-use data.&nbsp;</p><p>In this proof of concept, we're not just talking about any AI; we're discussing a practical, developer-friendly AI application. It's about making your development process more efficient, allowing you to focus on creativity and innovation while AI handles the mundane task of data generation.&nbsp;</p><p>This approach is not just about saving time; it's about enriching your development process with quality data that's tailored to your specific needs. It's a glimpse into the future of app development, where AI becomes an indispensable partner, transforming your ideas into reality with greater speed and less effort.&nbsp;</p><p>Are you intrigued by the possibilities? Discover the ease and flexibility for yourself in the Qodly Sandbox. Simply search for 'Qodly and OpenAI' in the platform, and you're all set to explore. This user-friendly environment is designed for experimentation and learning, allowing you to seamlessly integrate AI into your app development process. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting out, the Qodly Sandbox provides an accessible and practical way to see firsthand how AI can transform your projects and workflow.&nbsp;</p><p>Getting curious? You can easily check it out in a Qodly Sandbox <a href="https://cloud.qodly.com">here</a>: search and select for “Qodly and OpenAI”, and you’re ready.<br>&nbsp;</p><p class="text-align-center"><a href="https://cloud.qodly.com"><img src="/sites/default/files/blog%20images/templates%202.png" alt="Open AI template Qodly" width="351" height="377"></a></p>

<p>In web development, having a unified tool that bridges the gap between designers, clients, and developers is crucial. It not only saves valuable time but also prevents integration issues and reduces lead times, ultimately cutting down costs significantly. Qodly stands out as such a tool, offering a seamless experience where designers can create stunning interfaces, clients can visualize their ideas come to life, and developers can efficiently implement these designs into fully functional web applications.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Exploring Qodly Studio's Drag-and-Drop Interface</h2><p>Qodly features an intuitive drag-and-drop interface through Qodly Studio. This design environment allows you to create functional front-end pages without needing extensive coding knowledge. You can quickly assemble an application interface with a few clicks.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Components and Templates</h2><p>Qodly Studio includes various components and templates, helping you efficiently bring your ideas to life efficiently. These elements are flexible and customizable, so you can adjust them to meet your specific needs. Additionally, Qodly continuously adds new components and templates, ensuring you have access to the latest tools.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Qodly in action</h2><p>Watch our video demonstration to see Qodly in action and discover how it simplifies web development for designers, clients, and developers alike.</p><p class="text-align-center"><iframe width="853" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7UTF-DvplbY" title="Build Your Trello Clone in Minutes!" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p>

<p>Choosing the right platform to build your software can be overwhelming. Two popular options are formula-based platforms and development platforms. But what exactly are they, and which one is right for you?&nbsp;</p><p data-sourcepos="5:1-5:127"><span>Let's see which one is your best fit!</span></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Formula-Based Platforms: Building with Elegance (and Efficiency)</strong></h2><p data-sourcepos="7:1-7:179">Imagine creating software with drag-and-drop ease, using pre-built formulas instead of lines of code. That's the magic of formula-based platforms. These platforms are perfect for:</p><ul data-sourcepos="9:1-12:0"><li data-sourcepos="9:1-9:143"><strong>Citizen Developers:</strong> Business users with limited coding experience can build basic applications to automate tasks or streamline workflows.</li><li data-sourcepos="10:1-10:135"><strong>Rapid Prototyping:</strong> Quickly test your software concept and get valuable user feedback before diving into full-fledged development.</li><li data-sourcepos="11:1-12:0"><strong>Simple Applications:</strong> Build internal tools, data dashboards, or primary customer portals without the complexity of traditional coding.</li></ul><p data-sourcepos="13:1-13:9"><strong>Pros:</strong></p><ul data-sourcepos="15:1-18:0"><li data-sourcepos="15:1-15:124"><strong>Easy to Use:</strong> Intuitive interfaces with drag-and-drop functionality and pre-built components make development a breeze.</li><li data-sourcepos="16:1-16:98"><strong>Faster Time to Market:</strong> Get your application up and running quickly without extensive coding.</li><li data-sourcepos="17:1-18:0"><strong>Reduced Costs:</strong> Citizen developers can build basic applications, potentially reducing reliance on professional developers.</li></ul><p data-sourcepos="19:1-19:9"><strong>Cons:</strong></p><ul data-sourcepos="21:1-24:0"><li data-sourcepos="21:1-21:106"><strong>Limited Functionality:</strong> Customization options might be restricted compared to development platforms.</li><li data-sourcepos="22:1-22:107"><strong>Scalability Concerns:</strong> Formula-based platforms may struggle with complex or large-scale applications.</li><li data-sourcepos="23:1-24:0"><strong>Vendor Lock-In:</strong> You might be limited to functionalities offered by the specific platform.</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Development Platforms: Building Without Limits</h2><p data-sourcepos="27:1-27:172">Development platforms offer a more traditional approach, empowering developers with robust tools to build anything they can imagine. These platforms are ideal for:</p><ul data-sourcepos="29:1-32:0"><li data-sourcepos="29:1-29:108"><strong>Complex Applications:</strong> Build feature-rich applications with complex functionalities and integrations.</li><li data-sourcepos="30:1-30:119"><strong>Custom Solutions:</strong> Tailor applications to your specific needs and integrate them with existing systems.</li><li data-sourcepos="31:1-32:0"><strong>Scalability:</strong> Development platforms can handle large amounts of data and users without breaking a sweat.</li></ul><p data-sourcepos="33:1-33:9"><strong>Pros:</strong></p><ul data-sourcepos="35:1-38:0"><li data-sourcepos="35:1-35:108"><strong>Complete Control:</strong> Developers fully control the code, allowing maximum customization.</li><li data-sourcepos="36:1-36:86"><strong>Scalability:</strong> Build applications that can grow and adapt to your evolving needs.</li><li data-sourcepos="37:1-38:0"><strong>Flexibility:</strong> Integrate with various tools and libraries to create truly unique solutions.</li></ul><p data-sourcepos="39:1-39:9"><strong>Cons:</strong></p><ul data-sourcepos="41:1-44:0"><li data-sourcepos="41:1-41:105"><strong>Steeper Learning Curve:</strong> Requires coding expertise, which can be a barrier for non-technical users.</li><li data-sourcepos="42:1-42:100"><strong>Slower Development Time:</strong> Building complex applications from scratch takes time and resources.</li><li data-sourcepos="43:1-44:0"><strong>Higher Costs:</strong> This may require hiring professional developers, which can be expensive.</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>So, Which Platform is Your Perfect Match?</strong></h2><p data-sourcepos="47:1-47:94">The answer depends on your project requirements and technical expertise. Here's a quick guide:</p><ul data-sourcepos="49:1-51:0"><li data-sourcepos="49:1-49:132"><strong>Choose a Formula-Based Platform if</strong> you need a simple application, have limited coding experience, or value rapid development.</li><li data-sourcepos="50:1-51:0"><strong>Choose a Development Platform if</strong> you need a complex application, require complete customization, or have the resources for professional development.</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Enter Qodly: The Best of Both Worlds!</h2><p data-sourcepos="56:1-56:243"><span>But what if there was a sweet spot in the middle?&nbsp;</span></p><p data-sourcepos="56:1-56:243"><span>Introducing </span><a href="https://qodly.com/"><span>Qodly</span></a><span>, a hybrid low-code platform that combines the ease of use of a simple builder with the flexibility of a developer playground.&nbsp;</span></p><p data-sourcepos="56:1-56:243"><span>With Qodly, you can leverage pre-built components and a visual drag-and-drop interface to get started quickly while still being free to customize your app with code if needed. This makes Qodly the perfect solution for many projects, from basic workflows to complex business applications.</span></p>

<p data-sourcepos="3:1-3:231"><span>For years, businesses have been stuck between two extremes when needing new software: custom development, which can be expensive and time-consuming, or off-the-shelf solutions, which often lack the specific functionality required.</span></p><p data-sourcepos="5:1-5:9"><span>Low-code/no-code (LC/NC) development platforms offer a tempting middle ground. By using drag-and-drop interfaces and pre-built components, these platforms allow businesses to create custom applications without needing a team of professional programmers. But is LC/NC a magic bullet?</span></p><p data-sourcepos="7:1-7:31"><span>Like most things in tech, the answer is "it depends." Here's a breakdown of when LC/NC development shines and when it might be better to consider traditional coding:</span></p><h2><strong>When LC/NC Wins</strong></h2><ul data-sourcepos="11:1-12:100"><li data-sourcepos="11:1-11:177"><strong>Simple workflows and processes:</strong><span> Do you need an app to streamline data entry, customer onboarding, or internal approvals? LC/NC platforms excel at automating these common tasks.</span></li><li data-sourcepos="12:1-12:100"><strong>Fast turnaround times:</strong><span> Got a burning business need that can't wait for months of development? LC/NC lets you build prototypes and deploy solutions quickly.</span></li><li data-sourcepos="13:1-13:194"><strong>Citizen developers:</strong><span> Business users with limited coding experience can leverage LC/NC tools to build solutions that directly address their needs. This frees up IT for more complex projects.</span></li><li data-sourcepos="14:1-15:0"><strong>Cost-effectiveness:</strong><span> LC/NC generally requires fewer resources than traditional development, making it attractive for startups and businesses with limited budgets.</span></li></ul><h2><strong>When to Code It Old-School</strong></h2><ul data-sourcepos="18:1-22:0"><li data-sourcepos="18:1-18:184"><strong>Complex integrations:</strong><span> Does your application need to interact with multiple back-end systems or databases? LC/NC platforms may have limitations in complex integration scenarios.</span></li><li data-sourcepos="19:1-19:157"><strong>Scalability concerns:</strong><span> Do you expect high user volumes or massive data sets? Traditionally coded applications might offer better performance and scalability.</span></li><li data-sourcepos="20:1-20:134"><strong>Security is paramount:</strong><span> Dealing with sensitive data? Custom development allows for more granular control over security measures.</span></li><li data-sourcepos="21:1-22:0"><strong>Unique functionalities:</strong><span> Do you need a unique feature that doesn't exist in any pre-built component? Coding provides the flexibility for such creative solutions.</span></li></ul><h2><strong>Enter Qodly: The Hybrid Advantage</strong></h2><p data-sourcepos="27:1-27:35"><span>Not all LC/NC platforms are created equal. </span><a href="https://qodly.com/"><span>Qodly</span></a><span> stands out as a hybrid low-code solution that seamlessly blends the ease of no-code development with the flexibility of custom coding. Qodly empowers both business users and professional developers to collaborate effectively, creating sophisticated applications that meet diverse business needs. With Qodly, organizations can leverage pre-built components for rapid development while also having the option to write custom code for more complex requirements. This hybrid approach ensures that applications are not only built quickly but also tailored precisely to the business’s unique challenges, making Qodly a versatile and powerful tool in the LC/NC landscape.</span></p>

<p><br>Qodly introduces the concept of <a href="https://github.com/qodly/custom-components">Custom Components</a>, empowering developers to extend the platform's capabilities and tailor webforms to their specific needs.&nbsp;</p><p>Custom Components are user-created building blocks developed to address unique requirements or introduce specific features not covered by the default set of Qodly built-in components.&nbsp;</p><p>These components are crafted using React, providing a flexible and robust foundation for developers.</p><h2>Benefits of Using Qodly Custom Components</h2><p>The integration of Custom Components into Qodly offers a range of advantages:</p><ol><li><strong>Extensibility</strong>: Tailor webforms precisely to meet specific project requirements, providing a flexible and customizable solution.</li><li><strong>Reusability</strong>: Share Custom Components across diverse projects or within the Qodly community. This fosters collective enhancement and collaboration among developers.</li><li><strong>Efficiency</strong>: Enhance development efficiency by utilizing pre-built Custom Components. This approach speeds up the development process, reducing the time and costs associated with building components from scratch.</li><li><strong>Customization</strong>: Tailor your application components to fit your exact needs.</li><li><strong>Consistency</strong>: Ensure a consistent look and feel across your application by using standardized custom components.</li></ol><h2>Qodly Custom Components Repository</h2><p>This <a href="https://github.com/qodly/custom-components">repository</a> is a collection of custom components created by the community. It serves as a central location for developers to share and discover new components for their projects. Contributions are welcome and encouraged!&nbsp;</p><h2>How to Install Qodly Custom Components</h2><ol><li><strong>Choose the Component</strong>: Browse the Qodly Custom Components <a href="https://github.com/qodly/custom-components">repository on GitHub</a> and select the component you want to use.</li><li><p><strong>Download the Latest Version</strong>: Click on the component, navigate to the Releases section, and ensure you download the latest version. Click on the zip to download it.<br>&nbsp;</p><p><img src="/sites/default/files/install_component.gif" data-entity-uuid="8e8b7ce5-240e-44e9-9a10-f0f82bdf09c9" data-entity-type="file" alt="" width="1679" height="871"></p></li><li><p><strong>From the Qodly Side</strong>:</p><ol><li>In the Components section, click on the button <strong>Upload component</strong>.</li><li>Browse to the component you just downloaded or drag and drop it.</li><li>Click <strong>Install Component</strong>, then <strong>Reload</strong>.</li><li>The component should appear in the list of <strong>Custom</strong> under the Components section.</li></ol><p><img src="/sites/default/files/customCompQodlySide.gif" data-entity-uuid="207797cb-0668-4b7c-9f43-b33f24e5d105" data-entity-type="file" alt="" width="640" height="480"></p></li><li><strong>You are Good to Go</strong>: The component is now ready for your project.<br>&nbsp;</li></ol><h2>Example: Using a Qodly Custom Component</h2><p>To demonstrate the power of Qodly custom components, consider a scenario where you need to integrate a&nbsp;<a href="https://github.com/AyaBengherifa/Qodly-pdfViewer"> PDF viewer</a> into your application. Instead of creating this component from scratch, you can download an existing PDF viewer custom component from the Qodly Custom Components repository on GitHub and use it in your project.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p width="855" height="481" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XfJmevGmpsg" title="Qodly Custom Component: Grid Layout" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen="">&nbsp;<iframe width="853" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/e7CCBfcv2iw?list=PLcUzCPYm5QO9w8hIoc6CC-85NXK5tVjDM" title="" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>What about a super-flexible dashboard? We have <a href="https://github.com/metayoub/qodly-grid-layout">Qodly Grid Layout</a>, a custom component that lets your users drag, resize, and rearrange elements on their screen, creating a custom dashboard that perfectly fits their needs.</p><p><iframe width="855" height="481" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XfJmevGmpsg" title="Qodly Custom Component: Grid Layout" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p><h2>Conclusion</h2><p>Qodly custom components offer a powerful way to enhance your web applications with tailored, reusable elements. By leveraging these components, you can create more efficient, consistent, and engaging applications that stand out. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just getting started, exploring Qodly custom components is a step towards more flexible and dynamic software development.</p><p>Stay tuned for more tutorials and examples of how to make the most of Qodly's capabilities!</p>

<p>In today's fast-paced business world, the demand for custom applications is higher than ever before. However, developing these applications can often be a time-consuming and complex process that requires extensive coding expertise. This is where Qodly, a hybrid low-code platform, comes into play. But the question remains: Is Qodly suitable for citizen developers?</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>What Is Qodly?</h2><p>Before we dive into whether Qodly is a good fit for citizen developers, let's take a closer look at what Qodly is all about. Qodly is a hybrid low-code platform developed by 4D, a leading company in cross-platform app development for over 40 years. Professionals worldwide have harnessed 4D technology to construct potent apps for healthcare, finance, telecom, media and entertainment, utilities, manufacturing, and transportation.&nbsp;</p><p>Qodly aims to streamline the app development process by combining the efficiency of low-code development with the flexibility of code customization. <a href="https://qodly.com/blog/introduction-qodly" target="_blank">Learn more about Qodly in this blog post.</a></p><h2>What Is a Citizen Developer?</h2><p>According to <a href="https://www.gartner.com/en/information-technology/glossary/citizen-developer">Gartner</a>, a citizen developer is an employee who creates application capabilities for consumption by themselves or others, using tools that are not actively forbidden by IT or business units. They report to a business unit or function other than IT. Apps have become the “efficiency interfaces” of the business world. Instead of keeping track of important information or developing new processes in an excel sheet, custom apps have become the go-to solution to automate what was once done by hand.<o:p></o:p></p><p>However, businesses ran into a problem: apps just take too long to create from the ground up. The solution? Low-code. Low-code platforms became an easy and fast way to build apps without having to manually write all the code behind the platform.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;">Instead, low-code platforms implement a slew of pre-programmed “building blocks” that developers can simply drag and drop into place. This results in a lower amount of manually written code, hence: “low-code.”<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;">Unfortunately, low-code solutions have their own set of problems as well, which is why a new form of rapid application development (RAD) was created—hybrid low-code. To understand what hybrid low-code is, it is best to get a better understanding of low-code platforms.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></p><h2>Qodly and Citizen Developers: A Perfect Match?</h2><p>Now, let's address the question: Is Qodly suitable for citizen developers?&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Here are some key factors to consider:&nbsp;</strong></p><h3>Hybrid Low-Code Approach&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</h3><p>Qodly's hybrid low-code approach makes it an attractive option for citizen developers. It combines the simplicity and speed of low-code development with the ability to dive into custom coding when needed. While it may require some initial skills acquisition, the learning curve is relatively short.&nbsp;</p><p>QodlyScript, the functional language used in Qodly, is user-friendly and easier to grasp than languages like VB Script. If you've ever created a macro before, you'll find that mastering QodlyScript can be achieved in just a few days, allowing you to unlock the full potential of Qodly for your custom applications.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>User-Friendly Interface&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</h3><p>One of the key features of Qodly is its user-friendly interface, known as Qodly Studio. This web-based Integrated Development Environment (IDE) allows users to design and build applications with ease. You can leverage drag-and-drop components, visually design data models, and control permissions, all without extensive coding knowledge.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><h3>Customization&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</h3><p>Citizen developers often need to create applications tailored to their specific business needs. Qodly excels in this area, offering complete control over customization. You can build applications that suit your industry requirements without getting stuck in lengthy coding processes.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>Integration and Performance&nbsp;&nbsp;</h3><p>Qodly seamlessly integrates 4D technology with open-source web frameworks, ensuring high performance and efficiency. This means your applications will run smoothly, even if you don't have advanced technical expertise.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>Deployment and Management&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</h3><p>The platform provides streamlined deployment and management through the Qodly Cloud Management Console. This simplifies the process of deploying applications and managing them, making it accessible to those with limited technical knowledge.&nbsp;&nbsp; Support and Resources&nbsp; Qodly doesn't leave you in the dark. We offer extensive resources, including documentation, tutorials, and video walkthroughs, to help you get started. Plus, our support teams are ready to assist you when needed.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>To conclude</h2><p>Qodly is a tool that can be great for people who aren't expert coders but want to make their own custom web apps. It's easy to use, lets you make apps that fit your needs, and doesn't require you to be a coding genius. If you're someone who wants to build apps without getting tangled up in complex code, Qodly could be just what you're looking for. It helps you focus on improving your ideas rather than struggling with coding.&nbsp; Give it a try, and you might be amazed at how it can make your app-building journey much smoother.</p>

<h2>Who was the hackathon aimed at, and what was the theme?</h2><p>The very first Qodly Hackathon on the sports theme concluded on August 28th. This event, the first of its kind organized by Qodly, aimed to unite developers worldwide on a current, unifying, and boundary-crossing subject: sports.&nbsp;</p><p>The low-code platform was open and accessible to all who wished to unleash their creativity, and the developers responded eagerly.&nbsp;</p><h3>How did the competition unfold?</h3><p>DevHack24 started on May 27th, and participants had until August 21st to submit their creations. In addition to the joy of creating, developers showed curiosity and a thirst for learning and developed innovative concepts that gave us a glimpse of future needs.&nbsp;</p><p>The DevHack24 community engaged with the future and took us through applications that competed in novelty, progress, and avant-gardism. Starting from real needs, some created value in record time to materialize their vision into a deployable and shareable application.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>And what about the jury?</h3><p>The jury also included members from New Zealand, the United States, Germany, and France. Their specializations were varied and complementary.&nbsp;</p><p>Sophia Willows, representing New Zealand, specializes in software engineering and is deeply involved in the field. She readily shares her expertise.&nbsp;</p><p>Hassan Ould, an engineer by training who is passionate about low-code/no-code and an expert in growth marketing, was based in France. His sharp expertise in low-code and precision in application functionalities were highly appreciated. His high-level sports background also motivated him to join the DevHack24 jury.&nbsp;</p><p>Ricardo Mello, based in Canada, connected early in the morning to participate in the closing webinar and provided valuable feedback to the finalists.&nbsp;</p><p>Stephan Klein, from Germany, joined the jury upon discovering the Hackathon, complementing everyone's contributions.&nbsp;</p><p>The diversity of the jury members enriched the deliberations and allowed the winners to receive high-quality feedback.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>Who are the winners?</h3><p>The three winners shone with their innovation, creativity, and imagination, transporting us into a world as incredible as it is futuristic. These winners, whose stories will be detailed in upcoming blogs, come from Canada, Morocco, and France.&nbsp;</p><p>Congratulations to Cyril Limpalaer, Neyl Nasr, and Saadia Aboutarouc for their work's excellence and perseverance.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p class="text-align-center"><iframe width="855" height="481" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0rkPLh-be5Q" title="DevHack24: Closing Ceremony" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p><h4>Conclusion</h4><p>A big thank you to all the participants who amazed us and confirmed that innovation knows no bounds and that, thanks to platforms like Qodly, imagination can become reality without being a coding expert.</p>

<p>As businesses strive to keep up with rapidly evolving technology demands, low-code platforms have emerged as a game-changer for application development. These platforms offer a range of benefits, from accelerating development timelines to reducing costs.&nbsp;</p><p>However, not all low-code platforms are created equal.&nbsp;</p><p>To make an informed decision, it’s essential to evaluate the key features of each platform.&nbsp;</p><p>In this blog post, we’ll explore the must-have features you should look for in a low-code platform to ensure you choose the best solution for your needs.</p><hr><h2>1. <strong>User-Friendly Interface</strong></h2><h3>Why It Matters</h3><p>A user-friendly interface is crucial for enabling both technical and non-technical users to build and manage applications. A platform with an intuitive drag-and-drop interface simplifies the development process, making it accessible to a broader range of users, including business analysts and citizen developers.</p><h3>What to Look For</h3><ul><li><strong>Drag-and-Drop Functionality</strong>: Users can design applications by dragging components onto a canvas.</li><li><strong>Pre-Built Templates</strong>: Ready-to-use templates for common business scenarios to speed up development.</li></ul><hr><h2>2. <strong>Integration Capabilities</strong></h2><h3>Why It Matters</h3><p>Effective integrations are essential for connecting your applications with existing systems and data sources. A low-code platform with robust integration capabilities helps ensure your new applications communicate with other systems.</p><h3>What to Look For</h3><ul><li><strong>API Management</strong>: Support for RESTful and SOAP APIs to connect with external services.</li><li><strong>Pre-Built Connectors</strong>: Integration with popular third-party services like CRM systems, payment gateways, and social media platforms.</li><li><strong>Data Integration Tools</strong>: Capabilities for data import/export and synchronization between different systems.</li></ul><hr><h2>3. <strong>Scalability</strong></h2><h3>Why It Matters</h3><p>Scalability ensures that the platform can handle increasing amounts of data and users as your business grows. A scalable low-code platform supports the growth of your applications without requiring a complete overhaul.</p><h3>What to Look For</h3><ul><li><strong>Cloud-Based Architecture</strong>: Supports horizontal scaling to accommodate more users and data.</li><li><strong>Performance Optimization</strong>: Tools for monitoring and optimizing application performance.</li><li><strong>Support for High Traffic</strong>: Features to manage and distribute high volumes of requests effectively.</li></ul><hr><h2>4. <strong>Security Features</strong></h2><h3>Why It Matters</h3><p>Security is a top priority for any application development. A low-code platform with solid security features helps protect your data and ensures compliance with regulations.</p><h3>What to Look For</h3><ul><li><strong>Role-Based Access Control</strong>: Define user roles and permissions to restrict access to sensitive features and data.</li><li><strong>Data Encryption</strong>: Both in-transit and at-rest encryption to protect your data.</li><li><strong>Compliance Certifications</strong>: Adherence to standards like GDPR.</li></ul><hr><h2>5. <strong>Customizability and Extensibility</strong></h2><h3>Why It Matters</h3><p>Customizability and extensibility allow you to tailor the platform to your specific needs and extend its capabilities as your requirements evolve.</p><h3>What to Look For</h3><ul><li><strong>Custom Code Support</strong>: Options for adding custom code to extend functionality beyond the default features.</li><li><strong>Plugin Support</strong>: Ability to integrate third-party plugins or develop your own.</li><li><strong>API Access</strong>: For creating custom integrations and automations.</li></ul><hr><h2>6. <strong>Support and Community</strong></h2><h3>Why It Matters</h3><p>A strong support system and an active community can be invaluable when encountering issues or learning to use new features.</p><h3>What to Look For</h3><ul><li><strong>Customer Support Options</strong>: Access to technical support via chat, email, or phone.</li><li><strong>Knowledge Base</strong>: Comprehensive documentation, tutorials, and FAQs.</li><li><strong>Community Forums</strong>: Active user communities for sharing tips, troubleshooting issues, and exchanging ideas.</li></ul><hr><h2>7. <strong>Deployment Flexibility</strong></h2><h3>Why It Matters</h3><p>Deployment flexibility determines how and where your applications can be deployed. It’s important to adapt to different environments and scale your solutions.</p><h3>What to Look For</h3><ul><li><strong>Multi-Environment Support</strong>: Capabilities for deploying to development, staging, and production environments.</li><li><strong>Cloud and On-Premises Options</strong>: Choice between cloud-based or on-premises deployments depending on your business requirements.</li><li><strong>Version Control</strong>: Tools for managing different versions of your application and rolling back changes if necessary.</li></ul><h3>Qodly’s Edge</h3><p><a href="https://qodly.com/">Qodly</a> offers multi-environment support for development, staging, and production, with flexible cloud and on-premises deployment options. It also includes a user-friendly interface, robust security features, extensive integration capabilities, and scalability, making it a comprehensive solution for diverse development needs. Qodly's customization options and active community support further enhance its value, ensuring you have the tools and assistance needed to succeed.</p><hr><h2>Conclusion</h2><p>Choosing the right low-code platform can significantly impact your application development success. By focusing on these key features—user-friendly interface, integration capabilities, scalability, security, customizability, support and community, and deployment flexibility—you can find a platform that meets your needs and supports your business goals.</p><p><strong>Qodly</strong> stands out as a hybrid low-code platform that <strong>checks all the boxes</strong> for these essential features. With its comprehensive feature set, Qodly is well-equipped to help you build efficient, scalable, and secure applications.</p><hr><p>Planning to use a low-code platform for your upcoming project? Have you checked out <a href="https://qodly.com/">Qodly</a>?&nbsp;</p><p>Jump into the <a href="https://community.qodly.com/">community forum</a>, and let’s talk about the features that are key to your development goals!</p>

<p>Businesses often use custom apps specifically designed to automate workflows or enhance customer experience. In the past, app development was a long, technical, and expensive process that only larger businesses could benefit from.&nbsp;</p><p>However, with the introduction of low-code platforms, citizen developers with little technical experience could develop their own apps quickly and affordably. Now, even emerging businesses can benefit from automating their systems with their own custom-built apps.&nbsp;</p><p>That being said, if you want to build your own app, you'll need to follow eight critical steps in the app development you'll that you'll need to follow.</p><img src="/sites/default/files/howtobuildacustomapp.png" data-entity-uuid="b046322d-45e7-40d5-b843-ddd8ed7829d0" data-entity-type="file" alt="" width="1236" height="828"><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>8 Steps to Make a Custom Application&nbsp;</h2><h3>Step 1—Ideation</h3><p>The first step is clearly defining your objectives and requirements for the app clearly. To do this, it is best to first start with the pain points you want to address first. For example, if you're going to develop an app to automate a filling system, first:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>List the problems with the current ways your filing system works.&nbsp;</li><li>Work out how the app can solve each one of these problems.&nbsp;</li><li>Then, lay out your objectives and requirements for the app.&nbsp;</li></ul><p>Once you have a clear understanding of the app's intended problems and what it needs to be capable of solving them, it is time to conduct some market research.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>Step 2—Conduct Market Research</h3><img src="/sites/default/files/conductmarketresearch.png" data-entity-uuid="86ad1982-b751-4b53-8572-d8b845866778" data-entity-type="file" alt="" width="1234" height="822"><p>Whether you are building an app that will compete with other apps in the market or simply one to be used in-house for behind-the-scenes work, you'll want to conduct thorough market research.</p><p>No matter how unique your idea is for a custom app is, there is likely something similar out there. So, it is essential to research and learn from all similar apps. Ask yourself:</p><ul><li>What does their app have that mine doesn't?</li><li>How is their app performing?&nbsp;</li><li>Are there any pain points that my app should solve that theirs doesn't?</li></ul><p>Ultimately, the purpose of this market research is to inform you about how you go about developing your own app.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>Step 3—Choose a Low-Code Development Platform</h3><p>Low-code platforms allow companies and citizen developers to create apps as quickly and efficiently as possible. They provide the tools needed to create an app. Depending on which platform you choose, how you design and create your app will vary depending on which platform you choose.&nbsp;</p><p>As such, it is essential to find one that works for your needs before deciding on your app's design and development process for your app.&nbsp;</p><p>Some popular platforms out there to choose from include Salesforce, Microsoft Power Platform, and UiPath. These platforms offer features such as drag-and-drop functions, AI integrations, and team management tools.&nbsp;</p><p>For those wanting a simple all-in-one solution. Qodly combines low-code and hybrid options to allow more flexibility in the app development process. It is also made for those who want to develop, deploy, and run their apps all on one platform.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>Step 4—Build an MVP&nbsp;</h3><p>Once you are ready to start the app development process, start by prototyping and testing the features you want. Once you are satisfied with your desired features, it is time to build an MVP or Minimum Viable Product. An MVP is the skeleton of the final product.&nbsp;</p><p>Start by designing the layout of your app and adding basic functionality to it along with the core features.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>Step 5—Test It!</h3><img src="/sites/default/files/testtheapp.png" data-entity-uuid="5a975505-406d-41f3-9e8e-e86849535704" data-entity-type="file" alt="" width="1236" height="826"><p>Once you have your MVP, test it. Get feedback on the user experience and find all the shortfalls. Ensure all the core features function as expected, and list all the improvements and additions that the final product should have.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>Step 6—Build the App&nbsp;</h3><p>Next, it's time to build the app. During this process, it is important to conduct regular code reviews and testing to ensure the app development process is heading in the right direction and to catch any bugs early on in the process.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>Step 7—Quality Assurance&nbsp;</h3><p>Once your app is built, the next step is to develop a testing strategy for testing different app features to ensure that they meet predefined standards and objectives.</p><p>Performing functional and non-functional testing is also helpful. Functional testing ensures that everything is working correctly, and non-functional testing checks the app's overall performance, security, and UI of the app.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>Step 8—Launch It and Collect User Feedback&nbsp;</h3><p>Lastly, it is time to launch your app and collect user feedback to improve its performance. Some of the best ways to collect user feedback are through interviews and surveys.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>Summary&nbsp;</h3><p>All in all, custom applications can significantly automate your business process or improve customer satisfaction. With low-code solutions, citizen developers and those with low technical expertise can develop custom apps quickly and affordably—allowing even small companies to take advantage of the benefits that custom business applications can bring.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><hr><p>Tired of the complexities of traditional web development? <a href="https://qodly.com/" target="_blank">Qodly</a> offers a streamlined approach that empowers citizen developers, freelancers, and small businesses to create powerful web applications with ease. Backed by 4D's decades of experience in cross-platform app development, Qodly provides a hybrid low-code platform that combines the efficiency of drag-and-drop tools with the flexibility of custom coding.</p>

<p>Nowadays, businesses of all sizes rely heavily on mobile apps to facilitate client communication, optimize internal processes, and increase revenue. However, designing an app from scratch can take time and effort, especially for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) with limited resources. Here's where low-code platforms come into play, providing a more time- and labor-efficient app development and deployment method that doesn't necessitate a deep familiarity with computer programming.&nbsp;</p><p>Users of low-code development platforms can build sophisticated software programs using graphical user interfaces, drag-and-drop tools, and pre-made modules. This method facilitates the rapid development of customized software for commercial purposes by bypassing the necessity for hand-coded solutions. Low-code platforms also offer great adaptability and scalability to accommodate the inevitable changes in a company's app requirements.</p><h2>What Is A Low-Code Platform?</h2><p>A low-code software development platform allows users to create applications using only visual interfaces and drag-and-drop tools, rendering traditional manual coding archaic and obsolete. These great platforms proffer pre-built templates, workflows, and integrations that leave users in awe, for they can quickly build and deploy custom applications that meet their specific business needs. Moreover, these low-code platforms have many built-in features, such as security, scalability, and data management that need spellbinding. They allow users to create robust and scalable applications without extensive coding knowledge or expertise.<o:p></o:p></p><p>These otherworldly low-code platforms aim to expedite the application development process with the almighty power of magic, all while reducing costs and making it easier for mere mortals, also known as non-technical users, to participate in the development process.&nbsp;</p><h2>Features of Low Code Development</h2><div><ul><li><strong>Visual Modeling Tools</strong>:&nbsp;&nbsp;When it comes to low-code development, it's all about using pre-made templates and visual interfaces. As a result, it is easy to build programs. Low-code systems have pre-existing <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Low-code_development_platform">modules</a> that accurately match the specifics. Therefore, it is appropriate for both novice business users and expert programmers. Low-code effectiveness allows you to enjoy the ease of the no-code strategy.<br><br><o:p></o:p></li><li><strong>Drag-And-Drop Interface:</strong> With these low-code systems, you can drop your content where you want. This trait is crucial and incredibly helpful. That makes it much quicker to develop new apps. Programmers of all skill levels can benefit from this.<br><br><o:p></o:p></li><li><strong>Scalability</strong>: With any low-code platform, scalability is a major concern. With low-code systems, adding more resources as the user base expands is easy because of the system's inherent scalability. In particular, this helps medium and small businesses that are growing. Companies can ensure their apps are ready for peak usage with the help of a low-code platform without investing heavily in new computer systems or extra employees. Many companies in today's fast-paced market are adopting low-code platforms because of the agility and responsiveness they provide.</li></ul><h2>Benefits of Low-Code Platforms to Small and Medium-Sized Businesses</h2><p><span lang="EN-US">Here are some of the ways low-code platforms can benefit small and medium-sized businesses:<o:p></o:p><o:p></o:p><o:p></o:p></span></p><ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li><p><span style="font-family:Symbol;" lang="EN-US"></span><span dir="LTR"></span><span style="color:#0E101A;" lang="EN-US"><strong>Faster Time to Market</strong></span><span lang="EN-US">: The potential to drastically reduce development time is a significant perk of low-code platforms. With conventional coding approaches, businesses can create apps with low-code media in a fraction of the time it would normally take. This enables enterprises to meet the demands of their customers and adapt to shifting market conditions more rapidly. A quicker time-to-market can be a game-changer for SMBs wanting to gain an edge.</span></p><p><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></p></li><li><p><span style="font-family:Symbol;" lang="EN-US"></span><span dir="LTR"></span><span style="color:#0E101A;" lang="EN-US"><strong>Cost Savings</strong></span><span lang="EN-US">: Low-code platforms are helpful to small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs. They help keep software development costs down; traditional app development typically necessitates hiring skilled programmers and designers, which might be out of reach financially for new projects. Fortunately, low-code platforms have made it possible for businesses to create apps without the use of costly IT personnel or substantial coding skills or expertise. This can aid SMEs in better allocating their resources and allowing them to concentrate on other parts of their operations.</span></p><p><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></p></li><li><p><span style="font-family:Symbol;" lang="EN-US"></span><span dir="LTR"></span><span style="color:#0E101A;" lang="EN-US"><strong>Increased Agility</strong></span><span lang="EN-US">: Companies today need to be nimble and quick to adapt to the ever-evolving nature of the market. Companies can swiftly adjust to new demands thanks to the adaptability of low-code platforms. With a low-code platform, businesses can quickly make changes and updates to their apps without taking them offline for long periods. This enhanced responsiveness can help organizations maintain a competitive edge and capitalize on emerging possibilities.</span></p><p><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></p></li><li><p><span style="font-family:Symbol;" lang="EN-US"></span><span dir="LTR"></span><span style="color:#0E101A;" lang="EN-US"><strong>Improved Collaboration</strong></span><span lang="EN-US">: Companies can streamline their efforts to work together on app development projects by using low-code platforms that are built to facilitate communication and cooperation among employees. Teams can work together in real-time on app development projects using low-code platforms by exchanging ideas, feedback, and progress reports. This can aid SMEs in developing apps that better serve their clientele and enhance operational efficiency.</span></p><p><span style="font-family:Symbol;" lang="EN-US"></span><span dir="LTR"></span><span style="color:#0E101A;" lang="EN-US"><strong>Greater Control</strong></span><span lang="EN-US">: The low-code platform gives enterprises more say in their app creation processes. With a low-code platform, businesses may tailor their apps to their needs without hiring expensive programmers or relying on third-party service providers. Small and medium-sized enterprises can benefit from this increased leverage by having a more significant say over app development initiatives and the ability to guarantee that such projects are tailored to their specific needs.</span></p><p>&nbsp;</p></li></ul><h2>Conclusion</h2><p>In conclusion, low-code platforms provide numerous advantages for small and medium-sized businesses that want to build applications quickly and efficiently. Companies that want to stay ahead of the curve and preserve their competitive advantage should invest in low-code platforms because they can shorten time to market, save costs, expand flexibility, improve collaboration, and give them more control. As the demand for mobile apps rises, low-code platforms will become increasingly important for SMBs looking to capitalize on this development.<br><br>&nbsp;</p><hr><p>Tired of coding complexity? <a href="https://qodly.com/" target="_blank">Qodly</a> offers a low-code solution for building web apps quickly and efficiently. Backed by 4D's decades of experience, you can create custom applications without sacrificing performance or flexibility.</p></div>

<p style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;"><span lang="EN">The </span><a href="https://www.businessresearchinsights.com/market-reports/web-development-market-109039" target="_blank"><span style="color:#1155CC;" lang="EN">web development market</span></a><span lang="EN"> was worth USD 56 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow at a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of 8.03%, reaching USD 130,971.3 million by 2032.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;"><span lang="EN">That being said, the demand for web developers to create custom web applications will continue to increase over the years.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;"><span lang="EN">It should also be noted that the </span><a href="https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/low-code-development-platform-market-102972" target="_blank"><span style="color:#1155CC;" lang="EN">low-code development market size</span></a><span lang="EN"> was projected to grow from USD 22.25 billion in 2023 to USD 28.75 billion in 2024—with a CAGR of 32% from 2024 to 2032.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;"><span lang="EN">Furthermore, by 2025, </span><a href="https://quixy.com/blog/no-code-low-code-citizen-development-statistics-facts/" target="_blank"><span style="color:#1155CC;" lang="EN">Gartner estimates</span></a><span lang="EN"> that 70% of new applications will be developed using no-code or low-code solutions.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;"><span lang="EN">All that being said, the future of web development will not be solely relegated to those with high expertise in the field; instead, citizen developers using low-code platforms will have a greater footprint in the future of the industry.</span></p><h3><span lang="EN">Web Development Job Growth Over the Next 3 Years<o:p></o:p></span></h3><p style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;"><a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/web-developers.htm" target="_blank"><span style="color:#1155CC;" lang="EN">According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</span></a><span lang="EN">, web developers and designers see a significantly higher growth rate than average—with estimates suggesting that the field will grow by 16% from 2022 to 2032.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;"><span lang="EN">Considering that there are around 19,000 openings a year, over the next three years there will be around 57,000 new jobs for web developers and designers.<o:p></o:p></span></p><h4><a name="_7x9anaoe3g8m"></a><span lang="EN">Low-Code Adoption<o:p></o:p></span></h4><p style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;"><a href="https://quixy.com/blog/no-code-low-code-citizen-development-statistics-facts/" target="_blank"><span style="color:#1155CC;" lang="EN">Gartner estimates</span></a><span lang="EN"> that over 50% of medium to large enterprises will use low-code or no-code solutions for app development.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;"><span lang="EN">Furthermore, half of all buyers for these solutions will come from outside of IT organizations by 2025. As such, a larger number of industries such as BFSI, Education, and healthcare, will need a greater number of web developers.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;"><span lang="EN">The rapid adoption of low-code solutions is good news for those with little to no coding experience. It is estimated that </span><a href="https://colorlib.com/wp/web-development-statistics/" target="_blank"><span style="color:#1155CC;" lang="EN">63.8% of web developers</span></a><span lang="EN"> are self-taught, which is in large part due to low-code and no-code solutions, in an industry that was once highly technical.<o:p></o:p></span></p><h4><a name="_wd8nuy2wr87o"></a><span lang="EN">The Rise of Citizen Developers<o:p></o:p></span></h4><p style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;"><a href="https://quixy.com/blog/no-code-low-code-citizen-development-statistics-facts/" target="_blank"><span style="color:#1155CC;" lang="EN">Microsoft estimates</span></a><span lang="EN"> that of the 500 million apps it will create over the next five years, 450 million will be designed using low-code and no-code solutions.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;"><span lang="EN">Originally, the development of these apps would be left to highly skilled individuals, but due to the use of low and no-code solutions, citizen developers with little to no coding experience will be able to create these apps for Microsoft.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;"><a href="https://kissflow.com/low-code/low-code-stats/" target="_blank"><span style="color:#1155CC;" lang="EN">In 2023 alone</span></a><span lang="EN">, it was estimated that citizen developers would outnumber experienced developers by 4 to 1. By 2024, </span><a href="https://kissflow.com/low-code/low-code-stats/" target="_blank"><span style="color:#1155CC;" lang="EN">80% of web development services</span></a><span lang="EN"> were estimated to be built by citizen developers.</span></p><h3><span lang="EN">Summary<o:p></o:p></span></h3><p style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;"><span lang="EN">The benefits of being able to rapidly create and deploy custom business applications have led to a demand for low-code solutions and developers that can utilize them. Due to the simplicity of low-code solutions, the rise of citizen developers with little to no coding experience continues to grow.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;"><span lang="EN">All in all, the future of the industry is promising and has a low barrier to entry, allowing businesses of all sizes to take advantage of the numerous automation and efficiency benefits that developers can create.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

<p>Creating bespoke applications that will specifically meet your needs can be a long, highly technical, and expensive task. However, with the rise of low and no-code platforms, that doesn’t have to be the case.&nbsp;</p><p>Instead of writing every line of code from scratch, these solutions offer pre-built components that let anyone, from citizens to expert developers, create custom applications quickly, easily, and affordably.</p><p>That said, before discussing all the benefits of drag-and-drop development solutions, it’s best to get a better idea of what these solutions offer.</p><h2>What Are Low-Code Platforms?</h2><p>A low-code platform offers visual programming methods to help speed up development. Often, these platforms have a simple drag-and-drop feature and templates that users can choose from to develop a working application quickly. Some even offer AI assistance in automating workflows, analyzing data, language processing, and more. Ultimately, low-code platforms are designed to be user-friendly so that even those with little to no coding experience can build a custom application.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Benefits of Bespoke Application Development with Low-Code Platforms&nbsp;</h2><p>On that note, here are the seven main advantages of low-code platforms in bespoke application development.<br>&nbsp;</p><h3>1. Productivity</h3><p>Normally, the development process is long and involves coming up with all the features the app will have, its design, and the actual development and then testing of the app. The problem is that this is not only a long and complex process, but developers are often backed up as is with an endless number of requests.&nbsp;</p><p>However, a low-code platform allows even those with no coding experience to create an application. As such, non-technical staff can create the app or at least a rough draft of it, freeing up the development team to focus on other projects.&nbsp;</p><p>Considering that the bottleneck in the typical development process is often the few and overworked developers on staff, low-code has the potential to drastically increase productivity.<br>&nbsp;</p><h3>2. Development Speed&nbsp;</h3><p>Even if developers have the time to start creating a custom application immediately, it will still take some time before they finish building and testing the mobile or web application if traditional development methods are used.&nbsp;</p><p>With low-code, however, developers can use the pre-programmed building blocks to create an app quickly. This will eliminate much of the “grunt work” involved and allow the developers to focus on fine-tuning the application.&nbsp;</p><p>Additionally, citizen developers can also be utilized to create a “rough draft” of the app and then hand it over to experienced developers to write any additional code that is needed that doesn’t come pre-packaged.&nbsp;</p><p>This will significantly increase the development speed and allow businesses to create and deploy bespoke applications quickly.<br>&nbsp;</p><h3>3. Compatibility and Updates</h3><p>One of the major benefits of low-code platforms is that all the pre-programmed building blocks have already been extensively tested and are designed to work together.</p><p>As such, compatibility issues, which are often a major headache to deal with whenever new code is introduced to an application, are not a problem. This allows for apps to be regularly and seamlessly updated to keep up with the needs of the business.<br>&nbsp;</p><h3>4. Citizen Developers&nbsp;</h3><p>Considering that citizen developers with little or no coding experience can play a major role in the development process if low-code platforms are used, businesses can save not only time but resources when creating new apps.&nbsp;</p><p>Experienced developers are difficult to find and command a high wage, so it’s important to use them as efficiently as possible.</p><p>By introducing citizen developers into the development process, businesses can free up the time of experienced developers to focus on more important work and save money in the process.<br>&nbsp;</p><h3>5. Prototyping&nbsp;</h3><p>Prototyping is an essential part of the development process, and with the introduction of low-code solutions, it can be done much quicker and by those with no coding experience.&nbsp;</p><p>As such, businesses will have more flexibility when trying out new ideas and creating working prototypes.<br>&nbsp;</p><h3>6. Maintenance</h3><p>Maintenance is a tedious and time-consuming process that low-code solutions can significantly reduce. Since low-code platforms are designed to provide a seamless working set of pre-programmed building blocks, there are fewer bugs to deal with.&nbsp;</p><p>Additionally, new features can be added to the application without fully reworking or adjusting the existing code.<br>&nbsp;</p><h3>7. Democratization&nbsp;</h3><p>Traditionally, only larger businesses with the budget to afford experienced developers could use bespoke application development.&nbsp;</p><p>However, with the introduction of low-code platforms, businesses of all sizes can create custom applications without worrying about large development costs.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><h2>Summary&nbsp;</h2><p>Overall, low-code platforms offer businesses the flexibility, speed, and cost savings needed to create bespoke applications. These platforms significantly speed up the development process at all stages, from the initial design phase to testing and deployment.&nbsp;</p><p>One of the major benefits of low-code solutions is that those with little to no coding experience can play a significant role in the development process. This not only frees up experienced developers’ time from tedious tasks but also boosts productivity and lowers development costs.</p>