Understanding code, no-code, and low-code in automation
Tags: rpa, programming, botcity, automation
Published: 2023-05-24 15:52:39

> pt-br: [link](https://dev.to/botcitydev/entendendo-code-no-code-e-low-code-na-automacao-3bcd)

Did you know that there are these three ways to create applications for task automation? We will understand each one of them in this article.

## NO-CODE type automation

This development approach allows the creation of applications to automate processes without the need to write code with programming languages.

Usually, the no-code tool provides a graphical interface through which it is possible to drag and drop blocks of actions. And the fact that the person does not have knowledge of programming does not affect this development.

It is often used by people who work in business areas because it brings speed and makes it easy to use and create tasks.

However, it is essential to point out that this facility entails some disadvantages, such as the limitation of scaling its automation or translating the complexity necessary for the execution of tasks. So it ends up being indicated for more straightforward and often punctual tasks.

## LOW-CODE type automation

This is a development approach that combines the "no-code" form with the minimum need for logic and programming, bringing the possibility of working with all the support of a graphical interface, where it is possible to choose blocks of actions by clicking and dragging, in addition to being able to add codes, even simpler ones, to build the desired automation.

Developers and other areas (usually business) use this form of development to create automation because it allows the addition of complexity, but not so high.

The low-code approach also shows some disadvantages in its use that can be noticed on a day-to-day basis, mainly related to the scalability of its robots and what the platform of the supplier companies allows or does not about development.

## CODE type automation

This is the traditional approach to software development, in which developers write codes using programming languages, frameworks, and other available tools, depending on the technology used.

Despite giving the impression that developing automation with programming languages can be very complex and a disadvantage for the choice, as it is necessary to have a team of developers, this format gives freedom and flexibility for the construction of automation to happen the way they need to.

In addition, it increases the possibilities of using frameworks, reducing development time and facilitating parallelism, scalability, data security control, and auditing, among other crucial points in the system's development.

## What works best?

The answer, as always, will be: it depends. All approaches have their uses and advantages. It is essential to understand the possibilities that you have in your team or in your company to validate what actually makes sense to invest and apply.

In many situations, a no-code or low-code tool makes more sense, giving the most straightforward options for the business team to act immediately.

But it is always important to reflect on what that automation represents, why it is necessary, and what it can become in a while. Developing automation with some programming languages like Python, Java, Go, Ruby, and JavaScript will often make more sense. Because it can be scaled, prioritized in other teams, or reused in other areas but with similar or different parameters.

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I hope the reflection was helpful to you. Also, share your point of view about these different technologies and how to choose between them.

Thank you for reading the article, and I leave the channel open to exchange ideas and feedback.