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Difference between Low Code Software Development and Traditional Software Development

Last Updated : 13 Aug, 2024
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In this article, we will explore the differences between low code software development and traditional software development. Before diving into the differences, let’s first understand what each approach entails.

What is Low-Code Software Development?

Low-code development involves creating software applications with minimal hand-coding. Instead of writing extensive code, developers use pre-built templates and user-friendly interfaces, speeding up the development and deployment process. This approach allows even non-IT professionals with little coding experience to contribute to software development. Low-code platforms use graphical interfaces to drag-and-drop various elements, making it easy to configure an app without traditional coding.

Low-code platforms enable entrepreneurs to quickly enter the market, test new solutions, and see if they are effective for their business and customers.It have some features such as –

  • Allows for easy application configuration through drag-and-drop features.
  • Quick creation and deployment of applications.
  • Requires fewer resources and less time, reducing overall costs.
  • The platform provider handles updates and maintenance, simplifying the process.

What is Traditional Software Development?

Traditional software development, also known as plan-driven or heavyweight methodologies, follows a formal approach. It starts with a set of requirements, followed by design, coding, testing, and deployment. This process is documented extensively, beginning with a Software Requirement Specification (SRS) and adhering to the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC).

Traditional methodologies are often used for complex, critical systems where security and reliability are paramount, such as military systems. The major features of TSD are –

  • Involves detailed documentation at every stage.
  • Requires significant time and resources.
  • Suitable for creating highly customized software.
  • Requires a dedicated team for maintenance and updates.

Differences Between Low-Code and Traditional Software Development

S.No.

TRADITIONAL SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT

LOW CODE SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT

01. The traditional application development approach generally brings with it a spread of tools and multiple functions, which help the developers in creating highly complex applications. To be able to operate these apps accurately, one would require highly technical and complex skills during this field. The low-code platforms, on the opposite hand, don’t feature a large form of tools and functions. With a small set of tools, which might facilitate to develop various applications without much hassle. It becomes much easier for non-technical staff without the mastery of skills during this field.
02. Due to high technicalities and therefore the over complex nature, the custom application development platforms usually produce plenty of bugs, making it difficult for users to use the apps. In contrast, enterprise low-code platforms generally don’t produce bugs while building apps. This ends up in smooth running and hassle-free apps created by this technique.
03. Traditional or custom-made software is sort of expensive to create. Because developing a software application with traditional development process requires a lot of time, and resources which results a high budget in developing the project. Low-code platforms are way cheaper as compared to their traditional counterparts. This can be primarily because, with low-code platforms, an organization pays only to access the required service, not its development from start to end.
04. This is often usually a worthy option for giant companies that require highly customized software, which is difficult to make employing a low-code/no-code solution. This is often usually a worthy option for small and medium startups that require attractive software with less code and less development time.
05. Traditional development platforms generally have a sophisticated configuration system, making them less agile. Further, due to complex codes, it requires plenty of your time to find out and operate them accurately. In comparison, low-code platforms are much easier to use and operate because of their drag and drop features. Further, unlike custom development, you are doing not need to write codes here for developing the applications, as you’ll be able to simply use the drawing methods to try and do the identical.
06. With traditional coding, maintenance could be a big headache because the updates or revision would require an infatuated in-house or third-party development team to implement changes. Likewise, software revision, during this case, may be a cumbersome process that the teams need to plan, design, and test, followed by training users on new changes. Low Code Software Development.  Contrary to the present, low-code platforms being APAAS(application platform as a service), are typically run and maintained by the corporate that owns the platform. This makes the method of maintenance simpler as all the updates and enhancements to the software are handled by the hosting company rather than the business subscribing to the service.  
07. Web developers prefer programming languages and web frameworks to create highly coded web applications. Mendix and Appian are rapid application development tools that are employed for the creation of low-code web apps.
08. There is no platform constraint in traditional web apps as you can deploy to any platform you choose. Low-code apps provides fast deployment. However, you only have access to a few platforms. Deployment is possible only with the platforms that are supported, depending on the low code tools you are using. 
09.

Quality features-

  • Adaptable to all systems
  • Speed and performance are very high.
  • Debugging and testing take time.
  • Extremely scalable

Quality features-

  • Less integrity
  • Efficiency and Speed are expected
  • Live debugging makes the app error-free.
  • Constrained scalability
10. Traditional software development is expensive. Low code software development is not as expensive as traditional software development.
11.

When to use traditional software development?

  • For Unrestricted Solutions
  • For applications that necessitate a high level of specialized interactivity

When to use low code software development?

  • Enterprise Use Cases for Agile Transformation
  • For Specialized and Adaptable Solutions
  • Business users can develop applications quickly

Conclusion

Both low-code and traditional software development have their advantages and disadvantages. Low-code development is beneficial for rapid, cost-effective application development, especially for small to medium-sized businesses. On the other hand, traditional software development is better suited for large, complex, and highly customized projects.



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