Revolutionising App Development with Low Code/ No Code

Low-code and no-code test automation emerged as a response to the growing demand for faster software development and testing processes. Traditional test automation methods required significant coding skills and often resulted in lengthy development cycles. This led to the development of low-code and no-code solutions, which aimed to simplify and expedite the testing process. 

How low-code and no-code began 

The practice of low-code and no-code test automation started gaining prominence in the software industry in the mid to late 2010s. The primary reason behind its emergence was the need for more accessible and efficient ways to perform software testing. As software applications became increasingly complex, traditional manual testing and cumbersome script-based automation proved to be time-consuming and resource-intensive. 

Low-code and no-code test automation tools were introduced to democratise the testing process. They allowed individuals with limited programming knowledge or no coding experience at all to create and execute automated test scripts. This accessibility enabled organisations to involve a broader range of team members in the testing process, such as business analysts and domain experts, who could now contribute their domain-specific knowledge to test creation. 

A Merit expert adds, “Moreover, these tools helped reduce the bottleneck caused by a shortage of skilled automation engineers, as more people could participate in testing activities. This shift towards low-code and no-code automation also aligned with the broader trend of democratising technology, making it more accessible to a wider audience.” 

The Difference Between Low-Code and No-Code 

There are several other distinctions between low-code and no-code platforms, especially in the context of test automation and software development. Let’s look at what they are; 

Flexibility and Customisation 

Low-code platforms offer more flexibility and customisation options compared to no-code platforms. Users with some coding knowledge can extend and customise the functionality of low-code solutions by writing additional code when necessary. In contrast, no-code platforms are often more rigid in terms of customisation, as they prioritise simplicity and ease of use over advanced customisation options. 

Complexity of Applications 

Low-code platforms are better suited for developing and testing complex applications that may require custom logic or integrations with external systems. They provide the flexibility to incorporate specific coding logic when needed. No-code platforms are typically ideal for simpler applications and straightforward testing scenarios. 

Speed of Development 

No-code platforms tend to offer the fastest development and testing cycle because they eliminate the need for coding entirely. Users can quickly create and execute test scripts using visual interfaces and predefined actions. Low-code platforms may be faster than traditional coding but might still involve some coding tasks, slowing down the process compared to no-code solutions. 

A wider User Base 

Low-code platforms cater to a user base with varying levels of technical expertise, from moderately technical users to experienced developers. No-code platforms, as mentioned earlier, target users with little to no coding experience, making them accessible to a broader audience, including business analysts and domain experts. 

Decreased cost of implementation and improvement 

Low-code platforms may be more cost-effective for organisations with a mix of technical and non-technical users, as they can leverage the skills of existing technical staff. No-code platforms, while accessible, might require additional training and support for users who lack coding knowledge. 

Maintenance via software updates 

Maintenance can differ between the two. Low-code solutions might require periodic updates and code maintenance, similar to traditional software development. No-code solutions, on the other hand, often handle maintenance tasks such as updates and bug fixes transparently to users. 

Top 5 Low Code Platforms to Explore in 2023 

When it comes to low-code platforms, here are the top 5 in the industry today; 

ServiceNow’s App Engine  

A robust low-code platform that empowers users to create and automate business applications quickly. It offers visual tools and pre-built components, reducing the need for extensive coding expertise. This accelerates application development, streamlines processes, and enhances overall business efficiency within the ServiceNow ecosystem. 

OutSystems 

A prominent low-code platform, empowers users to swiftly build sophisticated applications using visual development tools and templates. Renowned for its robustness, OutSystems emphasises rapid app delivery, strong collaboration, and scalability, distinguishing it as a versatile choice for organisations seeking agile development without the constraints of coding complexities. 

Quickbase 

A versatile low-code platform, focuses on enhancing business agility through customised applications. It uniquely emphasises ease of use, empowering users across various skill levels to create tailored solutions. Quickbase stands out by prioritising user-friendliness and rapid application deployment, making it an accessible choice for organisations seeking efficient and tailored solutions. 

Salesforce Platform  

This CRM offers robust low-code capabilities, particularly renowned for its CRM integration. It empowers businesses to build tailored applications and automate processes while leveraging Salesforce’s extensive ecosystem. With a strong emphasis on scalability and customer relationship management, Salesforce Platform stands out as a specialised low-code solution for enhanced customer engagement. 

UiPath  

Specialises in Robotics Process Automation (RPA), automating repetitive tasks through software robots. Unlike other platforms, UiPath excels in automating complex workflows, enabling organisations to enhance productivity, reduce errors, and optimise operations. Its unique focus on RPA sets it apart, making it an essential tool for process automation. 

Top 5 No Code Platforms to Explore in 2023 

Here are 5 no-code platforms you must check out in 2023; 

Airtable 

Airtable is a user-friendly no-code platform that combines the simplicity of spreadsheets with the flexibility of databases. It empowers users to create customised applications, databases, and workflows effortlessly. With its unique blend of ease of use and versatility, Airtable is ideal for teams looking to streamline data management and collaboration without coding. 

Glide 

Glide is an innovative no-code platform that specialises in creating mobile apps directly from Google Sheets. It uniquely leverages spreadsheet data to rapidly build functional mobile apps, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a seamless and efficient way to transform data into user-friendly mobile applications without extensive coding. 

Apple Pie 

Appy Pie is a versatile no-code platform focused on creating a wide range of applications, including mobile apps, websites, chatbots, and more. Its uniqueness lies in its comprehensive approach to app development, offering solutions beyond data management. Appy Pie empowers users to craft various digital solutions without coding expertise, making it a holistic choice for businesses. 

Microsoft Power Apps 

Microsoft Power Apps is a robust no-code platform integrated with the Microsoft ecosystem. Its unique strength lies in its seamless integration with Azure, Office 365, and Dynamics 365, offering users powerful tools to build custom business applications, automate workflows, and access advanced AI capabilities, making it a comprehensive choice for enterprise-level solutions. 

Softr 

Softr is a no-code platform that excels in rapidly creating web applications and websites without coding. Its unique feature is its focus on data-driven applications, allowing users to transform data into interactive web apps effortlessly. Softr’s specialisation in data-centric solutions makes it ideal for projects requiring data visualisation and user interaction. 

Merit’s Expertise in Software Testing 

Merit is a trusted QA and Test Automation services provider that enables quicker deployment of new software and upgrades. 

Reliable QA solutions and agile test automation are imperative for software development teams to enable quicker releases. We ensure compatibility and contention testing that covers all target devices, infrastructures, and networks. Merit’s innovative testing solutions help clients confidently deploy their solutions, guaranteeing the prevention of defects at a very early stage.  

To know more, visit: https://www.meritdata-tech.com/service/code/software-test-automation/