Low-code and no-code: when will they replace development from scratch?

Website creation has long ceased to be the exclusive prerogative of developers. Thanks to low-code and no-code platforms, people who don't know how to write code can create web solutions. It's fast, convenient, and often cheaper. But the question arises: can such platforms completely replace classic website development in Ukraine? In what cases are they really effective, and when is a programmer indispensable? Let's figure it out.

The concept and differences between low-code and no-code

If you ask, “What do low-code and no-code mean?”, the answer is simple. These are two approaches that allow you to create a website with minimal or no coding at all, using graphical tools and ready-made templates:

• what is low-code? This is a method in which programmers write code only for non-standard or complex tasks, automating routine operations;
• what is no-code? In this case, the user can create an application or website without working with code at all. All interface and logic elements are assembled “out of the box”: just select and drag the necessary widgets into the editor or onto the canvas, configure their properties, and connect ready-made services.

The main difference between low-code and no-code is the degree of code involvement. In the first case, you can add or change the logic through programming, while in the second case, this is not possible. If we compare low-code and no-code in terms of advantages, the use of code provides more flexibility and control, while the absence of code provides maximum simplicity, low development costs, and quick launch.

Who are these technologies suitable for

The use of low-code in business is relevant when you need to:

• automate routine tasks and internal processes;
• integrate solutions with corporate systems;
• accelerate the development of client applications;
• reduce the load on the IT department and cut costs.

Who is low-code suitable for? It is ideal for companies that have developers on staff but need to speed up application launches and reduce the load on the IT department.

As for why no-code solutions are needed, they allow you to create simple websites, forms, and landing pages without resorting to the services of programmers. Who is no-code suitable for? Users without a technical background — business analysts, marketers, project managers, and other specialists without technical education.

Pros and cons

There are pros and cons to using low-code and no-code that you should be aware of.

Advantages

Low-code platforms are convenient because you can add logic manually, customizing the website to suit your specific tasks. Other advantages of low-code:

• minimal coding, since the main functionality is built from ready-made components;
• all solutions are managed within a single platform, which simplifies support;
• quick release of updates and fixes without delving into complex code.

Pros of no-code development:

• no programming skills required;
• quick creation of applications without code, using the “drag and drop” method;
• minimal risk of errors in the code thanks to proven templates.

Savings on development with no-code allow you to reduce the cost of programmers. In addition, less time and resources are spent on testing, since the templates have already been tested and debugged.

Disadvantages and limitations

When talking about the disadvantages of low-code platforms, it is worth highlighting:

• limited customization, which means that complex scenarios require workarounds;
• dependence on the platform, which can change its pricing or functionality at any time;
• possible performance issues when scaling;
• not always suitable for high-load or highly specialized projects.

There are also limitations to no-code solutions, including:

• you cannot add your own code and logic;
• strict limitations on templates and ready-made blocks;
• the risk of encountering a lack of the necessary functionality;
• dependence on platform updates and support.

Problems when using no-code if you need to scale, optimize, or migrate your website to another platform.

It is also worth remembering what tasks no-code cannot solve. For example, its capabilities are limited when working with non-standard architecture, integrating with highly specialized APIs, or creating a unique interface. In such cases, you cannot do without the participation of developers.

Platform overview: Webflow, Bubble, Adalo

Comparing no-code platforms will simplify the selection of a solution for your project.

Webflow

Creating a website on Webflow allows you to quickly assemble responsive portals with custom designs. Like any tool, Webflow has its pros and cons. The advantages are high design flexibility and the ability to export HTML/CSS. The disadvantages are that you need basic knowledge of layout to work with the code, and access to some features is only available with paid plans.

Bubble

Creating web applications on Bubble allows you to work with business logic, databases, and user scenarios. The Bubble no-code platform is suitable for complex services such as CRM and online stores.

Adalo

Used to create MVPs and native applications for iOS and Android. Creating a mobile app without code is implemented through visual screens, components, and a built-in database. Adalo for mobile apps allows you to quickly launch a program, but has limited interface flexibility. It is also worth mentioning that Adalo and MVP are a great combination for quickly launching mobile prototypes and testing ideas.

When to choose code development

Despite the growing popularity of no-code and low-code solutions, there are cases where no-code is not suitable. First of all, these are situations where you need to order a website that requires:

• non-standard logic;
• flexibility in implementation;
• deep integration with external systems.

It is also worth considering the complexity of scaling no-code solutions. If the project is growing rapidly, the load, data volume, and number of users are increasing — the platform may not be able to cope. No-code limitations in development also do not allow for increased security and performance.

In such cases, the advantages of classic development become relevant. It provides complete control over the application architecture, gives flexibility in the choice of technologies, and allows you to implement any scenarios — from non-standard animation to complex business logic. Custom software development provides maximum opportunities and flexibility, despite higher costs and deadlines.

To learn more about no-code, low-code, and custom solutions for complex projects, contact the Megasite specialists at the web studio in Kyiv.