Business has always been about finding new techniques and adaptations to improve operations. However, with the COVID-19 pandemic, every company in the world finds itself on an accelerated timeline of change, adaptation, and survival.
With so many businesses following work-from-home guidance from the government whenever possible, regular business activity has been disrupted, and there has been a massive upheaval for typical operational thinking. Even something as necessary as an in-person business meeting must be replaced with remote alternatives.
One way that businesses can overcome those hurdles is to turn to low code development platforms.
The New Challenge
Many establishments have operated under the assumption that all employees have access to the workplace itself, so they have centralized critical infrastructure for operations in their physical location. However, due to current work-from-home guidance in many states, this is a challenging obstacle to overcome.
Some companies have had enough foresight over the last few years to see the value in computer networks and online access. They have had an easier time coping with the so-called “new normal” as they have already authorized employees to access software or data remotely. In some cases, companies with larger budgets have even created enterprise apps designed to run on phones or tablets for the convenience of their staff.
Low Code Development Platforms Bring More Accessibility
Now, most businesses are in a situation where employees need remote access to software and data. Fortunately, the traditional solution of working with a software developer, negotiating an extensive vendor contract, and gradually implementing a new system is no longer the only solution. Low code development platforms are another alternative, and they are available to more members of the business community.
A low code development platform is a “toolbox” that takes high-level programming functions and “distills” them into easy-to-use icons in a graphical user interface environment. This removes the need to create software requiring years of technical training and proficiency in a traditional programming language.
For example, in the early days of the Internet, the only way people could create their own websites was to use HTML. A person had to be knowledgeable enough to type in the commands that create the graphics, interface, and structure of their websites. Today, tools like WordPress allow users to choose templates, modify the function of their blog, do online transactions, and manage their inventory with tools already available. No one is forced to type in HTML commands just to create a web page.
How It Works
Low code development platforms are a more robust version of the previously mentioned concept that has been applied on a larger scale. A variety of functions such as social networking, online financial transactions, and data compiling have been converted into drag-and-drop icons that can be quickly strung together to yield immediate results.
This means that non-technical staff can quickly get up to speed with creating their own software applications. IT staff can use low code development platforms without a problem, and non-technical staff can learn to use them as well after being introduced to the basics.
This programming toolkit makes software development accessible to more individuals than ever before. It’s not only easier to use but also more cost-effective in many cases than relying on a third-party vendor.
How It Is Used
For businesses that have yet to create their own remote work software, low code development platforms are an excellent solution to filling that gap. With a bit of training, management and staff can use the tools available to create custom software to meet their specific needs. Low code development platforms are designed for versatility, so there aren’t a lot of functions found in B2B business software that can’t be replicated using low code development platforms.
Low code development platforms are ideal for businesses that:
- Wish to conceptualize and create their own software
- Have certain feature sets in mind but can’t find all of them consolidated in one package
- Want to streamline business activity
On the other hand, while low code development platforms are powerful, there are specific applications they are not recommended for. If you have an activity with constantly changing variables, methodologies, and applications, a traditional programming solution or even a low code development platform is probably not viable. For example, creating new online transaction software for all future public events makes sense, but trying to do the same for a one-time event may not yield a good return on investment.
At Home And On The Go
Low code development platforms are ideal not just for remote work but also mobile tasks in general. The same versatility that allows your staff to create the software they need for their desktop or laptop is possible for mobile devices as well. Enterprise mobile app development is another task that low code development platforms can take on.
For businesses, this can mean a few things. Existing software that works on desktops and laptops, such as those for submitting invoices and getting approval from specific individuals, can be modified for mobile devices like phones and tablets. In other cases, some applications are ideal as native mobile applications.
Timecard software, for example, allows employees to clock in and track their payable hours without having to use the punch clock or a similar device in the office. For workers out in the field, especially in rural areas, it makes sense to allow them to punch in and out using an app on their phone. Low code development platforms make it possible for businesses to create these mobile apps on their own.
If you have gaps in your operations due to the lack of proper software, you can address your needs without hiring a third-party software development vendor by using low code development platforms. Look into this solution today to discover how it can help your business thrive.
