Considering Low Code Application Platforms to Accelerate Modernization?

Pathfinder Solutions Group has had the opportunity to roll out applications with low code application platforms that have been nested within SaaS platforms. Pathfinder Solutions Group deployed a case management solution leveraging Salesforce Lightning that provided a seamless workflow for recruiters, proposal writers, quality assurance specialists, security managers, human resources staff, sales staff and contract management staff to manage the recruitment process within a large staffing agency. It alse leveraged native reporting capabilities to provide management and the executive team insight into what was once spreadsheets, whiteboards and ad hoc reports. The solution was deployed with Application Programming Interfaces with Smart Recruiters, Bamboo HR, Docusign and Apogee (ERP/Accounting) and subsequently Salesforce FinancialForce. While the application workflow leveraged Salesforce Lightning, developer and IT Security assistance was required to assist with the connections between systems and onsite backup. This low code SaaS platform mashup was considered quite an accomplishment to implement in less than a year within an organization that had had a 48 year history behind it.

In today's fast-paced business environment, organizations are constantly looking for ways to improve their application delivery and responsiveness to changing market conditions. One of the biggest challenges facing organizations is the shortage of skilled developers to build and maintain custom applications. Low code application development platforms provide a solution to this challenge, by enabling non-developers and developers to work together to create, deploy, and maintain applications faster and with greater agility.

Low code platforms provide a visual development interface that eliminates the need for extensive coding and programming knowledge. This allows organizations to develop applications faster and with less technical expertise, freeing up valuable developer resources for other projects. The visual interface also provides a more user-friendly and intuitive way for non-developers to participate in the application development process, making it possible for organizations to leverage the expertise of their business users to create applications that meet their specific needs and requirements.

Another key benefit of low code platforms is the integration with cloud infrastructure. Cloud computing provides organizations with the ability to scale and distribute their applications on-demand, providing improved reliability, performance, and security. Low code platforms make it easy for organizations to deploy and manage their applications in cloud environments, allowing them to take full advantage of the benefits of cloud computing.

However, low code platforms are not without limitations. One of the biggest challenges is the lack of customization options, which may make it difficult for organizations to meet their specific needs and requirements. Additionally, low code platforms may not perform as well as custom-built applications, especially when dealing with large amounts of data or complex processes. The security of low code platforms may also be a concern for some organizations, and organizations should ensure that the platform they choose meets their security requirements.

To ensure successful low code application deployment in cloud environments, non-developers and developers must work together. Non-developers should provide input on the requirements and design of the application, while developers should provide technical expertise and guidance on the deployment and maintenance of the application. This collaboration will help ensure that the application meets the needs of the organization and is deployed and maintained effectively.

The following are some of the leading low code application development platforms:

1. Salesforce Lightning Platform

2. Microsoft Power Platform

3. OutSystems

4. Mendix

5. Appian

6. Zoho Creator

7. AppSheet

8. Nintex

9. K2

10. Quick Base

CIOs and business managers should consider low code application development platforms for several reasons:

1. Increased Agility: Low code platforms enable organizations to rapidly develop and deploy custom applications, providing a faster and more flexible response to changing business needs.

2. Improved Time to Market: Low code platforms allow non-developers to participate in the application development process, reducing the dependency on scarce developer resources and speeding up the time to market.

3. Lower Costs: Low code platforms eliminate the need for extensive coding and programming knowledge, reducing the cost of custom application development and maintenance.

4. Better User Experience: The visual development interface of low code platforms provides a more user-friendly and intuitive way for non-developers to participate in the application development process, leading to applications that better meet the needs of the business.

5. Better Integration with Cloud: Low code platforms make it easy to deploy and manage applications in cloud environments, taking full advantage of the benefits of cloud computing such as scalability, reliability, and security.

6. Improved Collaboration: Low code platforms allow non-developers and developers to work together to create, deploy, and maintain applications, leading to improved collaboration and better alignment of technology with business needs.

7. Better Application Performance: Low code platforms provide pre-built components and templates, allowing organizations to leverage best practices and proven technology to improve the performance and reliability of their applications.

Organizations that are looking to advance cloud adoption should consider exploring low code application development platforms with Pathfinder Solutions Group. With our expertise and experience, we can help you unlock the full potential of these innovative technologies, improving your operations and delivering real benefits for your organization.