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Nowadays, the demand for digital transformation among businesses of all levels and industries spikes so dramatically that traditional development practices usually fail to offer the necessary speed and flexibility. Above that, not all businesses can afford to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on a year or two-long software development project.
These circumstances fueled the need for disruptive technologies to unfold in the programming world. This is what inspired software engineers to invent low-code platforms.
We, as a low-code development company, consider it our mission to help businesses get to know more about top low-code technologies and how they can employ them for their benefit. In this article, we will highlight the Mendix platform that has solid ground in the domain and has proven itself, having brought millions of internal tools to thousands of businesses.
Mendix profile
Mendix is a low-code development platform that was founded in 2005 by three Dutch developers who were looking for ways to deliver enterprise-level internal tools and applications faster and easier. One of the founders, Roald Kruit, pointed out that developers frequently have a hard time tailoring software to exact business needs. Thus, he aimed to create a platform where citizen developers could build business-specific solutions.
Mendix founders succeeded in their endeavors. Today, Mendix is one of the best low-code platforms that allows citizen developers to build low-code B2B mobile applications, web-based internal workflow apps, and automatization tools. It has drag-and-drop functionality that makes it easy for citizen developers to compile applications in hours. Also, you can connect Mendix low-code apps with different databases, APIs, and 3’d parties.
In addition, there are pre-made Mendix connectors that make it possible to connect other applications and web services to your business application in a few clicks.
At the moment, the low-code platform helped more than 50k businesses to build over a million applications and internal tools.
What’s inside
So, let’s review the Mendix functionalities in more detail. Here we will zoom into several vital low-code software development dimensions such as user interface, hosting, integrations, customization capacity, and pricing.
User interface
Mendix allows citizen developers to create rich UI using a drag-and-drop interface with dozens of pre-made elements and components. This functionality combines with the WYSIWYG page editor in Mendix Studio which is the no-code part UI builder. These no-code functionalities allow citizen developers and beginners to create basic applications regardless of their level of programming skills. For professional developers, who are going to use platforms for sophisticated custom solutions there is Mendix Studio Pro. All the customization in Mendix goes with JS programming language.
Hosting
With Mendix, you can deploy low-code applications almost everywhere. Mendix provides its own PaaS (Platform-as-a-Service) hosting environment called Mendix Cloud. Mendix cloud is very secure and allows to deploy your application with a click. Besides, you can deploy your business application in a private cloud or other services like SAP and IBM cloud. For on-premise deployment, Mendix offers Microsoft and Linux servers.
Integrations
Mendix applications can be integrated with other services and systems using industry-standard protocols: REST, SOAP, JDCP, and OData. The process of connecting the 3’d party services to your Mendix low-code app is rather simple due to the numerous code abstractions and visual data mapping tools available in the platform. Mendix automatically maps the incoming JSON, XML, or MSDL message structures to create domain models and data mappings. Data models then transform to be used as Mendix app application models. In addition, Mendix offers a large number of pre-built connectors, business events external entities, and others.
Customization capacity
The platform’s customization capacity is centered around the Mendix Studio Pro editor. There you can enter custom JS code including the JavaScript-based libraries (React, Angular, Dojo, or D3) to create new UI components, app business logic, and connectors. The editor is embedded with multiple developer tools that accelerate the customization process with code suggestions. Also, you can edit your code in a variety of IDE (Integrated Development Environments) such as Eclipse, IntelliJ, and many others.
Another essential feature of Mendix low-code extensions is that you can extend not only the app itself but the modeler too. Such extension capabilities ensure code reusability, security, and app performance.
Use cases
With Mendix, you can create tons of different applications and connect them to other systems, databases, AI, machine learning, and IoT sensors. Overall, Mendix enables businesses to create flexible, consistent, and performant digital transformation, client-side, and internal applications.
Mobile apps
Mendix for mobile development focuses on business apps. Developers can create native mobile apps with custom business logic, integrations, and UI. Mendix perfectly fits the digital transformation needs of SMEs and enterprises alike providing speed/ease of development and reasonable pricing.
Web applications
Customer web portals, internal portals, and business PWAs are the most widespread web applications you can build with Mendix. Integrations with banking services will allow you to create another revenue stream and increase overall customer satisfaction.
Internal workflow tools
Another software group you can create with Mendix are workflow automation and optimization tools. These cost-effective solutions will help you save time on routine tasks, enhance collaboration in the team, and centralize your internal resources.
Legacy system modernization
Mendix's low-code platform offers an easy way to level up your legacy system with less operation and maintenance costs. This means that you can supplement or replace your old system with new Mendix applications. As far as the platform’s low-code apps have the capacity to be integrated with top software and services, Mendix is a great way to overcome the limitations of your business systems.
Pricing plans
Mendix includes 4 pricing plans:
Free - $0
The free plan includes only basic no-code functionalities. The plan includes:
- Agile project management tools;
- No-code & Low-code capabilities;
- Mendix Cloud deployment;
- Shared database tenancy;
- 2 environments per app;
- Free online academy;
- Community support.
This plan better suits for platform testing.
Basic - $50 per month for 5 users. + $10 per additional user per month.
The basic service package has everything from the free plan plus:
- Your app is always on – first in a stack;
- Access to your log files;
- 9/5 support;
- 99.5% uptime guarantee.
Serves better those who need simple workgroup applications.
Standard - $800 per month. + $10 per additional user per month.
The standard plan enables you to create enterprise-level applications offering:
- Personal customer success manager;
- Project dashboard;
- Enhanced deployment options;
- Dedicated database tenancy;
- 4 environments per app;
- Ops dashboard;
- IDP integration;
- Vertical scalability.
Premium - custom pricing negotiated with the platform representatives.
With the premium Mendix account, you unlock the full capacity of the low-code platform that can provide functionalities and tools for building mission-critical core systems. Premium service includes:
- Private app store;
- Flexible number of environments per app;
- Enhanced vertical scalability;
- Horizontal scalability;
- HA/Fallback;
- Advanced infrastructure control;
- 24/7 support;
- 99.95% uptime guarantee.
Pros & Cons
Mendix pros:
- Enterprise-level security and integrations;
- One-click deployment on cloud or premise;
- AI-assisted custom components development;
- Centralized application management;
- Easy-to-use interface and productivity tools;
- Multi-channel and multi-device applications;
- Open platform with high flexibility capacity;
- Social and developer collaboration tools.
Mendix cons:
- There can be some lags if you process large amounts of data using a single database;
- In some cases, Mendix apps for public use can be hard to spot for search engine bots.
Verdict
All in all, you can use Mendix for almost any business need, especially when it comes to business mobile and web apps, internal workflow optimization, legacy system modernization, and integration of new minor applications with your core system.
The platform has a beginner-friendly interface so that you can start developing your business internal apps without having any deep coding skills. Low-code developers and business owners notice the following positive factors of using Mendix:
“I always love to work in Mendix which is low-code/no-code enterprise application development software. The user interface and ease of using the software. And most likely continuous deployment and development and we can able to see the live design of the application which we were developing.”
Source: G2.com
“Create responsive web apps and even native mobile apps in no time with powerful developer tools. Full platform solution, so deploy your app to the cloud with a single click. New releases every month, filled with improvements and new features.”
Source: Product Hunt.
“I've been working with Mendix for 11+ years and this allows me to develop apps at the speed of ideas. The platform's flexibility allows me to create any application I can think of. The platform evolves quickly to respond to changes in the world and is therefore always ready for tomorrow. The visual aspect of software development allows for fantastic insights into the inner workings of the software and makes sure the created apps are always prepared for change which is a necessity in an ever-changing world!”
Source: Product Hunt.
Low-code development experts
There’s no faster and easier way to build your business application or internal workflow optimization software than by using low-code approach. Low-code and no-code platforms make software development available, affordable, and easy for all businesses (SMEs, startups, and enterprises) and individuals alike. But usually, to access the full potential of low-code you may need professional developer assistance that has experience using these platforms.
You can discuss your project with our low-code development experts if that is your case. We have more than 7 years of software development experience including working with various low-code development platforms including Retool, UI Bakery, Appsmith, Budibase, and others. Some of our developers even participated in the creation of one of such platforms. We can help you at any stage of your low-code app development: from the right low-code platform selection and process strategizing to full-scale development, customization, and integration with your existing systems. For more information, reach out to our low-code development team leads and get a free consultation.
P.S. We love writing about low-code. Subscribe to our blog to get the latest insights in your inbox.
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.
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.
