Today there are different methodologies and approaches aimed at making software development faster and more efficient. Businesses are continuously looking for new ways to optimize and automate their processes with advanced digital tools. At the current moment, a lot of companies are trying to minimize their development costs by using low-code platforms. Others are focused on changing their development workflows by introducing DevOps practices. Both of these methods work well. But what if we say that low code and DevOps together can work even better? In this article, we will talk about this combination and its benefits.
However, before discussing low code DevOps use cases, it’s worth considering these two practices separately. This will help us better demonstrate how they can be applied together and what results this duo can bring.
What is low code software development?
Low-code development is an approach that is used to create software products with minimal manual coding. Low code environments typically offer a wide range of visual tools and graphical interfaces. They allow users, including citizen developers (non-tech experts) to build software solutions significantly faster than in the case of traditional programming.
The core idea of this concept is to democratize and facilitate the development process.
A low-code platform typically includes:
- A drag-and-drop interface. It helps to design workflows, user interfaces, and integrations.
- Pre-built templates and components. They can be re-used in multiple projects. Moreover, developers can easily customize them.
- Integration tools. Low code environments usually provide extensive opportunities for connecting apps with databases, business systems, and various third-party services. Moreover, if you already have all the necessary solutions, you may not be interested in development tools. However, when you want to connect two or more apps and ensure smooth data exchange between them, you can use a low code integration platform, like Prequel, Hevo, or Dataddo. With their help, you won’t need to write a code for integration manually, you will have only to design the expected workflow visually.
- Logic-building tools. They are intended for defining business rules and app behavior without the need to write complex code.
The low-code development approach can be chosen for building a wide range of various solutions, including but not limited to business process automation tools, business internal tools, CRM platforms, ERP systems, customer-facing applications, mobile apps.
What are the main benefits of the low code approach?
- Faster deployment;
- Flexibility;
- Cost efficiency;
- Ease of maintenance.
On our blog, we talk a lot about low-code development and platforms that can be used for it. For example, from our articles, you can learn more about the latest trends in the low code space, as well as about approaches to hiring low code experts.
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What is DevOps?
The term DevOps can be defined as a methodology or a set of practices, principles, and cultural philosophies in software development. It relies on the idea of improving collaboration between software development (Dev) and IT operations (Ops) teams.
One of its key goals is to shorten the software development lifecycle. However, at the same time, it is crucial to deliver high-quality software and enhance the reliability of the built systems.
In the DevOps methodology, this can be achieved by means of combining processes, tools, and mindsets to ensure continuous software integration, delivery, and improvement.
Key elements of the DevOps philosophy:
- Cultural shift. This approach promotes and enables collaboration and shared responsibility between development and operations teams. By providing a convenient environment for result-oriented cooperation, businesses can encourage teams to work together toward common goals.
- Automation. The idea is to automate as many repetitive tasks as possible. For instance, many teams can successfully automate app testing, deployment, and performance monitoring. This helps to improve efficiency and minimize risks of human error.
- Continuous integration (CI). In DevOps methodology, developers need to regularly merge all code changes introduced into a shared repository. This practice significantly facilitates the process of integrating new parts with the already existing code.
- Continuous delivery (CD). Deployments should be frequent and automated. Thanks to this, it is possible to ensure timely software releases.
- Monitoring and feedback. To achieve the solutions’ excellent performance and stability, it is required to continuously monitor them. As a rule, DevOps teams use monitoring tools like Prometheus, Grafana, Opsgenie, and Pingdom. To improve software quality and operational efficiency, it is possible to introduce feedback loops. This approach presupposes starting to gather immediate feedback already during development and deployment. This helps to detect and address issues quickly before they escalate. Long-term feedback loops also include insights gathered over time in the post-deployed period. These insights are used for future planning and development.
- Scalability and reliability. One of the main principles of the DevOps philosophy is to create resilient systems solutions that can scale to meet changing demands. Moreover, DevOps teams always focus on disaster recovery and redundancy planning to achieve the desired level of reliability.
How can low code and DevOps be combined?
At first glance, it may seem that low code and DevOps can be used only separately and sometimes even replace each other. Nevertheless, that’s not true. They can be applied together. And this combination is really worth the effort in its implementation.
Let’s consider the low code DevOps use cases that are quite common today.
CI/CD pipeline introduction
A well-established CI/CD pipeline is essential for effective DevOps. It is responsible for ensuring the seamless flow of high-quality code. Low-code platforms can facilitate this process. Here’s what they can offer for a CI/CD pipeline:
- Pre-built connectors. Developers can streamline data integration, eliminate silos, and enable action on data without the necessity to migrate it.
- Reusable components. Ready-made workflows, business rules, integrations, and APIs save time and effort for teams.
- Rapid deployment. The low-code approach presupposes fast implementation of automation tools.
- Better collaboration. The use of low-code platforms allows teams to break tasks into manageable sprints. Business users can easily visualize the application’s structure to better understand what changes other team members have introduced. This helps to increase transparency and enhance project management.
Better testing quality
Low code architecture simplifies error detection and bug fixing during early development. It means that such tasks require less time and effort in comparison to complex analysis of manual code.
By integrating low-code into DevOps, all team members, not only tech experts, can participate in managing and updating software tests. Moreover, all of them can interpret and evaluate results. This collaboration between different teams greatly strengthens quality control and allows companies to deliver more secure and reliable software.
Effective version control
The combination of low code and DevOps supports version control integration and incident management. All this provides developers with a centralized and reliable source of documentation for efficient workflows.
Moreover, low code tools allow users to set alerts for key events like application errors or performance drops. Thanks to this, teams can timely resolve detected issues.
App lifecycle management
Modern low-code platforms often include application lifecycle management tools. They fully correspond to DevOps principles of continuous integration and continuous deployment. With these tools, DevOps teams can track the performance of their solutions, streamline the testing process, and simplify debugging tasks.
Low code environments can become centralized hubs for managing software. Teams can gain full oversight of all the built apps and workflows to better control the digital transformation process.
Benefits of low code DevOps
Here are the key outcomes that you can enjoy if you decide to rely on a low code platform and DevOps principles in your work with software.
Accelerated development cycles
Low-code development platforms will help to reduce or fully eliminate the necessity of manual coding. At the same time, the DevOps methodology will ensure faster software integration, testing, and deployment.
As a result, you will be able to shorten the time to market and respond to changing demands rapidly with solutions tailored to your needs.
Enhanced collaboration between IT and business teams
With low-code principles, app development becomes accessible to non-technical specialists. It means that they can also contribute to software creation and modernization. They can help IT experts better understand business processes and requirements.
DevOps supports the implementation of shared responsibility and continuous feedback. Given this, it also helps to maintain close cooperation between all stakeholders during the development lifecycle.
Higher quality and reliability
Low code environments contribute to reducing human error with visual workflows and standardized components. This is an important step toward general enhancement of software quality.
DevOps practices are based on continuous integration and delivery, as well as automated testing and deployment. All this also helps to ensure error-free releases.
Scalability and flexibility
Low code and DevOps both make it easier for businesses to adapt their solutions to continuously changing needs.
Low-code platforms allow teams to rapidly prototype and scale their solutions up and down without extensive manual coding. Thanks to low code architecture, companies can experiment with new ideas without lengthy development procedures.
DevOps also supports flexibility by prioritizing scalable infrastructure and cloud-native solutions.
Cost efficiency
Low code development is known as a budget-friendly approach to building apps. Reduced development time and the possibility of avoiding full reliance on specialized coding expertise are among the factors that can lower overall project costs.
DevOps practices can also optimize your development expenses. Automation of repetitive tasks reduces manual efforts. At the same time, employees can focus on strategic initiatives, instead of routine processes.
Final word
DevOps practices and low-code development can be quite helpful for businesses when applied separately. But they can bring even more value when combined.
As you can see both low code and DevOps approaches are aimed at making the development process more efficient, result-oriented, and fast. Both of them presuppose the necessity to establish strong ties between tech and non-tech teams. Both of them make it rather simple to introduce changes in apps and workflows that are required on a regular basis because the business world today is very dynamic.
If you need help with your software development and business process automation projects, feel free to contact our team. At Akveo, we have solid expertise in both low-code technologies and DevOps. We can help you efficiently combine these two approaches to leverage the highest value of their power!
Billing Automation for a SaaS Company with Low-Code
Our client needed a robust billing solution to manage hierarchical licenses, ensure compliance, and automate invoicing for streamlined operations.
The solution:
We developed a Retool-based application that supports multi-tiered licenses, automates invoicing workflows, and integrates seamlessly with CRM and accounting platforms to enhance financial data management.
The result:
- Achieved 100% adherence to licensing agreements, mitigating penalties.
- Automated invoicing and workflows reduced manual effort significantly.
- Dashboards and reports improved decision-making and operational visibility.
Retool Dashboards with HubSpot Integration
Our client needed a centralized tool to aggregate account and contact activity, improving visibility and decision-making for the sales team.
The solution
We built a Retool application integrated with HubSpot, QuickMail, and Clay.com. The app features dashboards for sorting, filtering, and detailed views of companies, contacts, and deals, along with real-time notifications and bidirectional data syncing.
The result
- MVP in 50 hours: Delivered a functional application in just 50 hours.
- Smarter decisions: Enabled data-driven insights for strategic planning.
- Streamlined operations: Reduced manual tasks with automation and real-time updates.
Lead Generation Tool to Reduce Manual Work
Our client, Afore Capital, a venture capital firm focused on pre-seed investments, aimed to automate their lead generation processes but struggled with existing out-of-the-box solutions. To tackle this challenge, they sought assistance from our team of Akveo Retool experts.
The scope of work
The client needed a tailored solution to log and track inbound deals effectively. They required an application that could facilitate the addition, viewing, and editing of company and founder information, ensuring data integrity and preventing duplicates. Additionally, Afore Capital aimed to integrate external tools like PhantomBuster and LinkedIn to streamline data collection.
The result
By developing a custom Retool application, we streamlined the lead generation process, significantly reducing manual data entry. The application enabled employees to manage inbound deals efficiently while automated workflows for email parsing, notifications, and dynamic reporting enhanced operational efficiency. This allowed Afore Capital's team to focus more on building relationships with potential founders rather than on administrative tasks.
Learn more about the case
Retool CMS Application for EdTech Startup
Our client, CutTime, a leading fine arts education management platform, needed a scalable CMS application to improve vendor product management and user experience.
The scope of work
We developed a Retool application that allows vendors to easily upload and manage product listings, handle inventory, and set shipping options. The challenge was to integrate the app with the client’s system, enabling smooth authentication and product management for program directors.
The result
Our solution streamlined product management, reducing manual work for vendors, and significantly improving operational efficiency.
Building Reconciliation Tool for e-commerce company
Our client was in need of streamlining and simplifying its monthly accounting reconciliation process – preferably automatically. But with a lack of time and low budget for a custom build, development of a comprehensive software wasn’t in the picture. After going through the case and customer’s needs, we decided to implement Retool. And that was the right choice.
The scope of work
Our team developed a custom reconciliation tool designed specifically for the needs of high-volume transaction environments. It automated the processes and provided a comprehensive dashboard for monitoring discrepancies and anomalies in real-time.
The implementation of Retool significantly reduced manual effort, as well as fostered a more efficient and time-saving reconciliation process.
Creating Retool Mobile App for a Wine Seller
A leading spirits and wine seller in Europe required the development of an internal mobile app for private client managers and administrators. The project was supposed to be done in 1,5 months. Considering urgency and the scope of work, our developers decided to use Retool for swift and effective development.
The scope of work
Our developers built a mobile application tailored to the needs of the company's sales force: with a comprehensive overview of client interactions, facilitated order processing, and enabled access to sales history and performance metrics. It was user-friendly, with real-time updates, seamlessly integrated with existing customer databases.
The result? Increase in productivity of the sales team and improved decision-making process. But most importantly, positive feedback from the customers themselves.
Developing PoC with Low Code for a Tour Operator
To efficiently gather, centralize, and manage data is a challenge for any tour operator. Our client was not an exception. The company was seeking to get an internal software that will source information from third-party APIs and automate the travel itinerary creation process. Preferably, cost- and user-friendly tool.
The scope of work
Our experts ensured the client that all the requirements could be covered by Retool. And just in 40 hours a new software was launched. The tool had a flexible and easy-to-use interface with user authentication and an access management system panel – all the company needed. At the end, Retool was considered the main tool to replace the existing system.
Testing New Generation of Lead Management Tool with Retool
Our client, a venture fund, had challenges with managing lead generation and client acquisition. As the company grew, it aimed to attract more clients and scale faster, as well as automate the processes to save time, improve efficiency and minimize human error. The idea was to craft an internal lead generation tool that will cover all the needs. We’ve agreed that Retool will be a perfect tool for this.
The scope of work
The project initially began as a proof of concept, but soon enough, with each new feature delivered, the company experienced increased engagement and value.
We developed a web tool that integrates seamlessly with Phantombuster for data extraction and LinkedIn for social outreach. Now, the company has a platform that elevates the efficiency of their lead generation activities and provides deep insights into potential client bases.
Building an Advanced Admin Portal for Streamlined Operations
Confronted with the need for more sophisticated internal tools, an owner of IP Licensing marketplace turned to Retool to utilize its administrative functions. The primary goal was to construct an advanced admin portal that could support complex, multi-layered processes efficiently.
The scope of work
Our client needed help with updating filters and tables for its internal platform. In just 30 hours we've been able to update and create about 6 pages. Following features were introduced: add complex filtering and search, delete records, styling application with custom CSS.
Together, we have increased performance on most heavy pages and fixed circular dependency issues.
Creating MVP Dashboard for Google Cloud Users
Facing the challenge of unoptimized cloud resource management, a technology firm working with Google Cloud users was looking for a solution to make its operations more efficient. The main idea of the project was to create an MVP for e-commerce shops to test some client hypotheses. Traditional cloud management tools fell short.
The scope of work
Determined to break through limitations, our team of developers turned Retool. We decided to craft an MVP Dashboard specifically for Google Cloud users. This wasn't just about bringing data into view; but about reshaping how teams interact with their cloud environment.
We designed a dashboard that turned complex cloud data into a clear, strategic asset thanks to comprehensive analytics, tailored metrics, and an intuitive interface, that Retool provides. As the results, an increase in operational efficiency, significant improvement in cost management and resource optimization.
Elevating CRM with Custom HubSpot Sales Dashboard
Our other client, a SaaS startup, that offers collaborative tools for design and engineering teams, was on a quest to supercharge their sales efforts. Traditional CRM systems were limited and not customizable enough. The company sought a solution that could tailor HubSpot to their workflow and analytics needs.
The scope of work
Charged with the task of going beyond standard CRM functions, our team turned to Retool. We wanted to redefine how sales teams interact with their CRM.
By integrating advanced analytics, custom metrics, and a user-friendly interface, our developers provided a solution that transformed data into a strategic asset.
In 40 hours, three informative dashboards were developed, containing the most sensitive data related to sales activities. These dashboards enable our customer to analyze sales and lead generation performance from a different perspective and establish the appropriate KPIs.
Building a PDF Editor with Low-Code
Our client, a leading digital credential IT startup, needed a lot of internal processes to be optimized. But the experience with low-code tools wasn’t sufficient. That’s why the company decided to hire professionals. And our team of developers joined the project.
The scope of work
The client has a program that designs and prints custom badges for customers. The badges need to be “mail-merged” with a person’s info and turned into a PDF to print. But what is the best way to do it?
Our developers decided to use Retool as a core tool. Using custom components and JavaScript, we developed a program that reduced employees' time for designing, putting the data, verifying, and printing PDF badges in one application.
As a result, the new approach significantly reduces the time required by the internal team to organize all the necessary staff for the conference, including badge creation.
