Five Misconceptions About Low-Code Development Platforms

Some people have a hard time with the idea of low-code development. There, we said it. It's not the traditional "high-code" approach that experienced developers use, and that alone can make people suspicious.

So, it makes sense that as more businesses use low-code for their needs, misconceptions about its capabilities keep emerging. Below, we'll go through five misconceptions about low-code development platforms like Mendix and the applications resulting from this relatively new way of thinking.

As a reminder, low-code is a development approach that uses visual interfaces to create applications. It's a departure from hand-coded development, which requires extensive training and expertise (while conjuring up images of hackers behind a desk in shadowy rooms). Mendix is a popular low-code development platform for many businesses, and while low-code development is seen as a low barrier to entry for citizen developers, there is still plenty of room for customization in the hands of traditional developers.

1. Low-code platforms are only suitable for basic applications

People often think low-code development platforms like Mendix are only for creating simple applications for relatively easy tasks like scheduling systems or contact forms. In truth, these platforms can create enterprise applications capable of handling demanding processes across an entire business—no matter the size.

PostNL, for instance, rebuilt its core order management system using Mendix, which is now capable of processing over one million parcels a day. Low-code development uses a modular approach that breaks down larger applications into microservices to make things more flexible, which allowed Mendix to create two core service flows for PostNL: one to receive incoming customer orders and one to handle potential order changes.

To ensure high availability and maintain on-time deliveries, each service was assigned a duplicate version to act as a failsafe, while a combination of applications was used to transmit parcel routes and order updates across the PostNL ecosystem, allowing 4.5 million users to track and re-route deliveries as needed. Recognizing the system's complexity and its impact on maintenance, PostNL used Mendix to actively monitor the state of these new solutions. Clearly, this isn't a basic task.

2. Low-code development means low-quality applications 

Another misconception is that low-code platforms are used to make subpar applications with a short lifespan. This just isn't the case. The Mendix platform comes with built-in best practices, reusable components, and frameworks that ensure development is quick and comprehensive. When you think about it, using pre-tested, reusable components actually reduces the chance of bugs or inefficiencies plaguing the final application.

This was the case for the Schiphol Today app, which was tasked with helping floor managers report incidents as quickly as possible across all areas of one of Europe's busiest airports. The relatively small amounts of coding used to create the app allowed it to pivot and support a whole new range of required processes as the first wave of COVID came along. Furthermore, its robust framework meant that even a considerable shift in functionality was seamless, ensuring that the app remained a high-quality and reliable reporting tool. This allowed the floor managers to focus on actual face-to-face customer interactions instead of spending hours filling out incident reports.

3. Professional developers aren't needed with low-code 

A quick look at the benefits of low-code could have businesses—especially smaller startups—under the impression that highly skilled developers are an expense they can avoid. It's easy to see why, as low-code platforms promise a simplified development process that enables business users to create functional applications without extensive coding knowledge.

While low-code platforms simplify aspects of app development, professional developers can still be involved in more complex integrations, customizations, and managing architecture related to these low-code developed applications. Until then, they can focus on more strategic tasks that require hand-coding—which means far better resource allocation and bang of a business’s buck.

4. Low-code applications aren't secure

Security is a topic often raised when it comes to low-code development. After all, low-code platforms give technically inexperienced users the ability to create applications that manage and manipulate all sorts of data, so there's always the risk that security isn't the first thing that comes to a user's mind as they drag and drop their way to creating an app.

The reality is that low-code platforms like Mendix are built with enterprise-level security protocols in mind, such as GDPR compliance and ISO certifications. These platforms offer built-in security features like role-based access, encryption, and automated code scanning, which often surpass traditional development practices. Therefore, low-code platforms make it easier for businesses to ensure consistent security standards across multiple applications.

5. Low-code development is only for internal applications

Low-code applications are great for behind-the-scenes applications that grace the computers of backroom staff, the tablets of shopfloor assistants, and the graphic interfaces on factory machinery. However, low-code platforms can also develop sophisticated, customer-facing solutions across multiple industries. Whether it's building mobile applications, e-commerce platforms, or customer portals, low-code enables fast, scalable, and tailored solutions that are just as robust as traditional development methods.

For a more in-depth look at the capabilities of low-code development, why not take a look at our comprehensive low-code guide?