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Nowadays, we’re witnessing an unprecedented level of growing digitalization in many industries worldwide. One of the technological drivers that revamps business activities is the low-code approach in software development. As of 2022, the expansion of low-code/no-code tools is a major trend that allows citizen developers to create apps, launch startups, and solve problems at many operational levels.
What’s it all about
Low-code tools came as a real game changer for businesses of all sizes. Its benefits stand on three pillars: speed, convenience, and saving costs. Let’s dissect each of them.
- Guess what: projects that used to take two or three years to kick off can be completed in months or even weeks. For instance, businesses can quickly develop an MVP (minimum viable product) at a modest price, launch it on the market, gather user feedback and develop a full-fledged product in the future.
- Secondly, low-code platforms change the paradigm that software development is expensive. In fact, it’s expensive if you employ software engineers, sure. However, you can start with lesser budgets if you are ready to work with low-code tools.
- Finally, the low-code approach is quite often the only option available to startups and small businesses. Well, you have to start with something, considering the growing demand for new applications, especially Software as a Service (SaaS) and Platform as a Service (PaaS).
No wonder Gartner's research claims that spending on low-code development technologies will grow to an astonishing $30 billion in 2023.
As of 2023, the need for low-code interfaces is bigger than ever before. But why?
Factors
Let’s see what factors contribute to the current state of things.
Downturn
In regard to the current downturn in the economy, businesses (especially startups) should react fast. Any slowness (i.e, recklessness) will be really costly for companies that can't adapt to the current economic situation. Low code allows people to do projects fast and with little expense.
Saving costs
In the scenario above, cost optimization is possible owing to the use of low-code/no-code solutions that help non-techies (or so-called citizen developers) meet their business needs. Today, such tools may be integrated way deeper into company processes and, accordingly, save more and more.
Upskilling
Another essential factor to mention is upskilling and professional development of the workforce. Modern workers are looking for more opportunities to gain experience working with low-code or no-code platforms. About 80% of users of low-code platforms report that they would be more wanting to work for a business that invests in their technical upskilling.
Busting the myth
Now let’s touch upon the main idea. Well, it’s easy: people shouldn’t perceive both no-code and low-code platforms as purely software engineer's tools. Instead, a low-code builder is rather a tool for a doer of any nature, a person with ideas to implement.
However, it’s not that easy. Don’t get me wrong: you still need to have some basic skills and understanding. Don’t believe the hype either: an average Joe from the accountant department won’t create an internal accounting tool from scratch any time soon. At least, it won't happen overnight, as the ads may suggest.
Despite this, low-code platforms are tools targeted at non-techies who can create internal tools that solve their particular problem. I mean, the major factor is having an idea, and only the second is coding skills per se. It’s especially important in today’s circumstances when venture capitalists are more careful when planning to invest.
The rules of today’s game
In the current scenario, the optimization of costs is possible owing to the greater use of low-code/no-code solutions that allow saving resources while still fulfilling development needs.
Three years ago, Gartner predicted that 80% of programming tasks would be delivered with little coding by 2024. Considering the points above, it’s a no-brainer to claim that this figure may grow way bigger. This economy may lead to changing the software development paradigm, especially for startups.
With low-code/no-code builders, startup founders depend in lesser measure on programmers when developing their prototypes. The global startup scene is changing as more startups adopt low-code platforms to survive the storm. I guess hybrid teams will become commonplace in the industry.
Summing it all up
Sure, technical restrictions exist. Any low-code platform isn't a silver bullet. But the thing is, they don't have to be so. No-code and low-code tools are the first steps toward a completed project. In other words, you create a working prototype and then contact developers with something like: "Hey! We've got a prototype, but we need to do better."
So, I think low-code tools are tools for doers and people with ideas, and that's cool. Their first and foremost purpose is to unlock creative potential. But again: low coding requires a basic understanding of software development concepts, and its mastering can't happen overnight. Summing it all up: while low-code tools come with cost-savings, time-to-market improvements, and error reduction, one still needs some technical skills to scale the apps, integrate them with other platforms, and provide maintenance.
One way or another, it seems like low-code platforms have already changed the software development paradigm for good. By allowing anyone to build software, these tools have made a big difference in the IT world.
Low-code platforms for you
With that being said, what about getting familiar with some of the options in the market? Take a closer look at this list of platforms:
Powered by such low-code platforms, thousands of doers have a chance to implement their ideas with little coding while developers can spend more time on non-trivial tasks.
Low-code experts
Ideas rule the world, sometimes even bad ones. Jokes aside, more often than not, you need a technological partner to fulfill your ideas in full measure.
What about partnering with low code/no code development experts? With more than 8+ years of low-code development experience, we help companies develop robust applications that cater to specific business needs. Our seasoned consultant team provides advice on low-code platforms for companies willing to innovate. Besides, we’ll help you implement an elaborated low-code strategy from day one.
P.S. We love writing about trends in low code. Subscribe to our blog to get the latest insights right 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.
