Organizations are under pressure to deliver faster, reduce costs, and modernize their systems without losing quality. Low-code platforms are proving to be a strong ally.
But the real question is: What kinds of use cases are worth building with low-code in large organizations? Let’s dive into this based on my experience working with clients at CBTW.
What Is Low-Code and Why Does It Matter?
Low-code platforms simplify application development with drag-and-drop interfaces and ready-made components. Instead of writing every line of code, teams can assemble applications quickly while still keeping flexibility where it matters.
The real advantage isn’t just speed. Low-code reduces dependency on overbooked developer teams, gives business users more control, and helps IT focus on what truly requires engineering expertise. When applied strategically, low-code becomes a way to innovate faster across the enterprise.
As a Solution Architect at CBTW, I’ve seen firsthand how low-code can be a game-changer for large organizations, enabling them to move faster, improve their systems, and innovate more efficiently. But it’s important to understand where low-code truly shines and where it might not be the best fit.
Where Low-Code Delivers the Most Value
Low-code platforms are not a one-size-fits-all solution. They are most effective when applied to the right kinds of applications and use cases. Here’s where I’ve seen low-code deliver tangible value:
- Internal Process Automation
Low-code platforms are ideal for building internal process applications. These include systems for departments like HR, finance, and procurement, which often rely on spreadsheets or disjointed email chains. By replacing these manual processes with automated systems, organizations can reduce errors, improve tracking, and make workflows more efficient.
- Customer-Facing Tools
Low-code is equally effective on the client side, such as portals, mobile apps, and dashboards. Working with our partner Mendix, we built a full customer portal in just 4 months, compared to the 12 months originally estimated. One of the standout features was how business users were able to shape the portal’s functionality themselves, without needing to constantly loop in IT—saving both time and resources.
- Modernizing Legacy Systems
Many organizations rely on legacy systems that are functional but outdated. Low-code can be an excellent solution to modernize the front-end without overhauling the entire system. For example, one of our manufacturing clients had a solid inventory backend, but the user interface (UI) was stuck in 2008. Using low-code, we created a mobile-friendly front-end, transforming how teams interacted with the system. The result? Fewer errors, better data management, and happier users.
- Backend Workflows and APIs
Low-code isn’t limited to front ends. We’ve built entire order-processing pipelines, where business analysts defined workflows while developers focused on performance. This collaboration bridged the gap between IT and business, removing bottlenecks in delivery.
- Rapid Prototyping
When speed matters, low-code shines. If you have an idea but need to test it, low-code enables you to create a working version in a matter of days, not months. This is invaluable for spotting issues early in the process and avoiding time and resources spent on rework. It’s a great way to test ideas without committing to lengthy development cycles.
When Low-Code Makes Business Sense
Low-code platforms make the most sense from a financial perspective when you’re building multiple applications or when you have a significant development backlog. For single-use applications, the investment in licenses may not be worth it. However, if you’re dealing with a small development team and a long backlog, low-code becomes a cost-effective solution. It reduces bugs, speeds up delivery, and lowers maintenance costs.
Additionally, low-code platforms help businesses avoid the constant rebuilding of applications due to outdated front-end technology. For example, if you’re tired of rebuilding apps because of the legacy AngularJS (and now facing the rise of newer technologies like React, Vue, or Svelte), low-code platforms take care of much of this technology churn, providing a flexible and long-term solution.
The Role of Engineers in a Low-Code World
While low-code platforms offer significant benefits, it’s important to note that they do not replace developers. Instead, they enhance the toolkit of software engineers by allowing them to focus on more complex, performance-driven tasks while business users handle simpler, repetitive applications. Low-code platforms are tools that empower teams to do more, faster, and with less reliance on IT departments for every minor change.
As a software engineer, I always emphasize software craftsmanship. It’s about knowing when and how to use the right tools for the right tasks. Just like a painter chooses the right brush or spray gun, a software engineer should recognize when low-code fits the project or when traditional development is necessary.
Conclusion
Low-code platforms are transforming the way enterprises approach software development. They are perfect for automating internal processes, modernizing legacy systems, building customer-facing tools, and quickly prototyping new ideas. By strategically using low-code where it makes sense, businesses can drive innovation, improve efficiency, and significantly reduce time-to-market.
Ready for faster delivery and smarter digital solutions?
If you’re facing growing backlogs, outdated systems, or the need to innovate at scale, our teams at CBTW can help you put low-code to work where it creates the most impact.
Deep dive into our services and see how we can help.
