5 low-code platform myths debunked
Tags: programming, lowcode, cloud, serverless
Published: 2021-10-15 07:44:17

Did you know that the worldwide low-code development technologies market is expected to reach $13.8 billion in 2021? 

While the consumption of low-code platforms is steadily increasing among tech-savvy organizations, a large number of businesses still consider this technology as niche. That's why we decided to debunk 5 of the most common low-code myths.

## Myth 1: Low-code platforms can't be used to build complex apps

Most low-code platforms have a two-pronged approach to reduce the complexities involved in software development. The drag-and-drop UI components help tackle front-end complexities, while the back end is supported by English-like scripting languages for complex workflow automation. This means that the software-building activity is only limited by the user's imagination and not the tool itself. Don't let a myth like this stop you from exploring these platforms and experiencing their true capabilities. 

## Myth 2: Low-code is a misnomer — it requires expert coding abilities

The technical expertise needed to build applications with low-code platforms is based on business needs and application complexity. While traditional coding platforms require complex lines of code, low-code platforms possess ready-made code snippets, requiring fewer lines of code. Most low-code platforms borrow elements from open-source/open-standard languages, such as C, Java, JavaScript, Python, and more. The critical factor, however, is the logical reasoning required to utilize the code for specific uses case within the application. There are multiple open-source resources one can use to tweak code for their needs, and most low-code development platforms have debugging tools that provide suggestions and throw errors.

## Myth 3: Low-code and legacy systems are mutually exclusive

Many firms refrain from rocking the boat and choose to hold on to their legacy systems. However, with improvements in digital transformation, relying only on legacy systems will inevitably hinder scalability. Low-code platforms provide cross-platform accessibility and can integrate with multiple third-party tools with the help of built-in connectors or code-like API calls. This means that low-code software can enhance existing legacy systems, rather than replace them.

## Myth 4: Niche technology, like low-code, has a steep learning curve

[Low-code platforms](https://www.zoho.com/creator/?utm_source=evang&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=evang) thrive on ease of use, quicker app builds, and economical benefits. With drag-and-drop functionalities, visual builders for automation, and other user-friendly features, deploying a simple app takes a few days, or sometimes just hours. One of the successes of low-code is that people with varied technical expertise—from novice business users to hardcore technical developers—have been able to build apps with astonishing ease. This indicates that the learning curve is a function of complex business requirements and not technical expertise. Even with complex business requirements, low-code platforms still have an edge over traditional coding platforms.

## Myth 5: Data privacy and storage is a concern with low-code

A majority of low-code platforms, such as Appian, Caspio, Outsystems, and Zoho Creator, store data securely on the cloud. Caspio, Outsystems, and Zoho Creator provide on-premise data storage, as well. With digital advancements and many organizations adopting cloud-based solutions, regulations, such as GDPR compliance, ensure that low-code platforms providers take data security and privacy seriously. 

## In conclusion

Low-code platforms help build powerful, business-critical applications. Rather than rely on off-the-shelf products, business users, as well as expert developers, can tweak their applications to suit their exact needs. With visual builders and out-of-the box coding components, automating processes on low-code platforms is easier, and saves you both time and money.