A New Stage in Software Development
The low-code development market reached $22.5 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow to $94 billion by 2028.
Already, 60% of applications are being created outside IT departments, and according to Gartner, by 2026 over 80% of developers will actively use low-code platforms.
Companies like Canva are already receiving billion-dollar investments thanks to the development of simplified business automation solutions.
Low-code vs No-code: What’s the Difference?
No-code refers to platforms where users can create simple applications without writing any code. This is an ideal solution for “citizen developers” — people without technical education. However, customization options in such systems are limited.
Low-code, in turn, combines a visual environment (drag-and-drop) with the ability to add custom code. This makes the technology convenient not only for non-technical users, but also for experienced engineers who can significantly speed up the development process.
How Low-code Development Works
Low-code does not replace programmers but automates routine tasks, freeing up time for creative and technically complex solutions.
Compared to the traditional approach, low-code significantly reduces time and the amount of manual work.
The low-code development process includes:
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- Defining system requirements
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- Selecting third-party APIs
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- Creating interfaces, data models, workflows
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- API integration
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- Customization using code
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- Testing and gathering user feedback
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- Deployment to production
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- Maintenance and updates
Traditional development requires twice as many stages and involves a development team at each of them.
Advantages of Low-code Platforms
1. Fast Results
Most low-code applications are developed in less than 3 months, while traditional development takes from six months to a year. This is especially important for startups where time-to-market determines success.
2. Easy Integration
Low-code solutions can be easily integrated with existing company systems, reducing the load on IT departments and ensuring stable operation.
3. Significant Cost Savings
Even with the involvement of professional developers, the time and cost of application development are noticeably reduced. According to analysts, return on investment (ROI) in such projects can exceed 200%.
4. Access to Modern Technologies
Low-code platforms use containers, microservices, cloud services, enabling scalable systems without unnecessary complexity.
5. Improved User Experience
Most platforms provide ready-made interfaces and templates with intuitive navigation — ensuring high-quality UX even without a designer.
What Applications Can Be Built with Low-code?
- Internal corporate solutions: task management, document flow, resource or personnel management systems.
- Client services: customer portals, loyalty services, interactive applications.
- Legacy system modernization: updating ERP, CRM or HR platforms without full core replacement.
The Future of Low-code Development
Low-code is not just a new approach to software development but a paradigm shift in the IT world.
It paves the way for the democratization of technology, where every employee can participate in creating internal solutions.
In the coming years, this trend will only strengthen, as businesses strive to do everything faster, simpler, and cheaper — which is exactly what low-code development offers.