Can't code? No problem!
As a bootstrapper, you no longer have to spend massive amounts on developing software.
No-code development has completely revolutionized the software development industry.
From lowered costs to faster development, it has been a blessing for an industry hit with growing demands and developer shortages!
However, which no-code platform will suit your requirements, and should you really go for it? Read ahead to find out the benefits of no-code, its limitations, the best no-code platforms for different use cases, and the rise of no-code to build the best for your business.
What is Meant by No-Code Platform?
No-code development platforms (NCDPs) let programmers and non-programmers build application software by configuring graphical user interfaces instead of traditional programming. These platforms don't require coding and typically provide pre-built templates for anyone to create apps, websites, databases, automation tools, and more "techie" stuff. Some well-known examples of no-code platforms include Airtable, Bubble, Webflow, WordPress, and Zapier.
Key Benefits of No-Code Platforms
No-code platforms are seeing a rapid adoption rate due to the shortage of skilled software developers and the potential of no-code platforms to speed up the software development process. But that's not all. Let us have a quick look at the benefits of no-code platforms.
1. Quick Development
Consumers across all sectors are demanding fast and seamless product experiences. By bridging the gap between an idea and a usable application, no-visual code interfaces assist developers in bringing products to market more quickly and effectively. Compared with traditional coding, no-code platforms help complete huge projects in a fraction of the time. This further eliminates the need to wait in long queues and project backlogs.
2. Cost Reduction
Since no-code development doesn't require the same level of effort and time, it helps save a lot of money that would otherwise be spent on hiring qualified developers and getting the work done. Since the cost of development with no-code platforms is low, solopreneurs, freelancers, creators, and all other bootstrappers no longer need to worry much about funds to build programs.
3. Anybody Can Develop
No-code platforms use visual interfaces and drag-and-drop functionalities which anybody can use to develop top-notch software. This eliminates the barriers to entry and allows people to go from business ideas to life irrespective of their background, thereby making anyone a programmer.
4. More Autonomy
Due to lower dependencies on professional developers or programmers, no-code platforms provide more autonomy to users when it comes to turning their business visions into reality. So, they can use their creativity and ideas to develop them without having to depend on professional developers.
5. Greater Flexibility
No-code platforms give you unmatched flexibility to make changes in a jiffy as opposed to traditional programming that doesn't allow quick changes. Hence, adapting to changes is easier with no code.
Potential Issues With No-Code Platforms You Should Be Aware Of
Just like any other technology, no-code platforms come with certain disadvantages. Below are some of those.
1. Development Constraints
Since no-code platforms offer pre-built templates and visual blocks that can be edited, they confine what you can build using them. If you plan to add a unique, inevitable edge to your business application, you might realize handwritten code offers you that edge.
2. A Little Lack of Control
Since you rely on a platform for all your developments, your sensitive data is vulnerable if there's a security breach or if the platform gets hacked. It can also result in a disaster if the business shuts down. Hence, it's advisable to learn about the platform inside out.
3. Vendor Lock-Ins
Since you don't own your source code, vendor lock-ins can be a real challenge. If you choose to move from one platform to another, you might find it hard to migrate due to your dependence on the original vendor.
Who Uses These No-Code Platforms?
Let us have a look at some of the most popular users of no-code platforms and what makes them choose no-code.
1. Solopreneurs/Makers/Creators/Indie Hackers
Solopreneurs, creators, makers, and indie hackers generate revenue directly from clients and have limited resources to invest in websites or applications. No-code allows them to build their own sites and boost their online presence.
2. Marketers
Marketers use no-code platforms to make their work more convenient and easy. They use these tools for developing chatbots, sending newsletters, and other automated processes.
3. Startups
Startups are tight on their budgets, making development difficult to prioritize for them. With no-code platforms, startups can build their websites and other software without paying a hefty fee to professional developers. And, of course those who want to cut down their product development/production time by half or up to 10 times.
4. Small Businesses
Since small businesses need to keep their initial investments and expenses low, they prefer getting their software programs built using no-code platforms.
5. Enterprises
By expediting the development process, no-code platforms assist enterprises in reducing the backlog of applications and enabling quick time to market. They also help enterprises be more efficient and automate business processes.
Top Use-Case Categories of No-Code Platforms
Wondering what you can build with no-code?
Irrespective of the kind of business you have, no-code platforms can help build everything from a basic website and mobile app to a marketplace and eCommerce store. And that's not all. You can also use no-code platforms to launch courses, newsletters, memberships, surveys, databases, and directories.
Let us have a look at some of the top use-case categories of no-code platforms and trending tools in each category to help you make the right choice.
1. No-Code App Builders
Do you want to build an application without coding? While it might sound bizarre, no-code app builders like Bubble, Thunkable, Adalo, etc., let you build anything from social media applications to marketplaces.
Also read: Our complete guide to no-code app development.
2. No-Code Website Builders
Looking to build a website for your business? Website builders like Webflow, Typedream, Wix, etc., help you build a website in a couple of hours and days instead of waiting for months for it to go live. They further help you make changes in a few clicks without any downtime. From an online portfolio to an eCommerce website with no code, it's all a few clicks away!
3. No-Code Landing Page Builders
Using landing pages, you can effectively target various client segments with relevant content. So whether you want to get more sign-ups or sell your products or programs, creating a landing page can be hassle-free, given that you have the right tools. Landing page builders like Carrd, Dorik, Convertkit, etc., can be a savior for your business.
4. No-Code Automation Tools
Due to the acceleration of digital transformation during the pandemic, no-code automation tools have seen a tremendous increase in use over the past few years. Tools like Zapier and Make can help you automate workflows using app integrations. Time for you to automate the repetitive tasks and invest those hours elsewhere!
5. Database Apps
Database apps are a game-changer for individuals and businesses who want to organize their data or work on projects together. Two of the most popular database apps include Airtable and Tadabase, which allow you to build a database within minutes using an easy interface.
6. No-Code Analytics
No-code analytics platforms let you connect with live databases and SaaS products to create reports without using complicated tools or coding. Tools like Obviously.AI and Actiondesk help you explore data flexibly and make the best decisions with it.
7. Community Management Tools
If you want to foster meaningful relationships, community management tools can aid you through events, insights, and more. Two of the most trending community management tools include Circle and Luma.
8. Newsletter Tools
As an individual or brand who's planning to launch their newsletter, you might find it difficult to publish them, receive payments, track analytics and design the overall infrastructure. Newsletter tools like Substack and Revue make it a piece of cake for you.
9. Online Store Builders
Creators and coaches who aim to monetize their knowledge and make some extra bucks can build coaching programs, memberships, courses, eBooks, etc. Gumroad and Kajali are two popular online store builders.
10. Web Forms & Interactive Content
To build a successful business, you need to keep your audience engaged. Some ways to interact with the audience include gathering their feedback or opinions using online forms, helping them via chatbots, offering quizzes, calculators, and more. Typeform and Outgrow are among the best no-code web interactive tools to help you with the above.
Apart from these, there are podcast tools, payment tools, email marketing tools, and even membership site platforms.
Here are all the no-code tools you should know about.
Why Should You Include No-Code Platforms In Your Techstack?
A tech stack comprises a group of tools, platforms, apps, and software that a business utilizes to create its goods, run its operations, and track its performance indicators.
No-code platforms have seen significant popularity in recent years as they enable individuals and businesses to create unique applications, databases, and other types of software without learning to write codes. No-code platforms and technologies can accommodate infinite use cases because of their affordability, flexibility, and ease of use. Hence, you should definitely consider including them in your tech stack.
No-Code Platforms Empower Everyone To Be a Creator
We all have the potential to create better processes and systems for our businesses. All it takes to build them is tapping into a new mindset and discovering new tools that can make it happen. Since no-code platforms make it simpler and more convenient to put your ideas into action, these tools empower everyone to become a creator.
The Rise of No-Code Platforms
The use of no-code platforms is rising, and the pace of digitalization is accelerating drastically due to their ability to quickly create software programs without the need for technical or coding skills. The no-code movement is already happening!
From websites, landing pages, and apps to databases, automation tools, chatbots (and a lot more) – you can build it all using no-code platforms.
Case studies like these show how brands can save months by using no-code platforms instead of traditional programming.
In the near future, citizen developers will build an increasing number of applications using no-code platforms. Here's a detailed guide on the future of no-code.
So, whether you are a marketer, startup founder, entrepreneur, or solopreneur, learn more about what is no code, and get started with your own no-code journey!
Written by Aastha Kochar, a freelance writer at Shnoco.
