Top 5 Open Source Low Code Platforms

Non-coders may quickly create a simple app with just a few clicks. This promise of low-code development platforms and technologies sounds perfect in an era of skyrocketing deadlines and high-maintenance supervisors.

However, the question remains: What do open source low code platforms do?

Defining Low-Code Technology

Low-code is a method of software development that employs hardly any coding to create apps and procedures. Rather than using complex coding languages, low code development platform leverages visual interfaces with basic logic and drag-and-drop capabilities.

Furthermore, users with no formal experience in coding or software development can use these straightforward tools to create apps for various purposes, including mobile apps and corporate apps.

Pros of Low-Code

An open source low code platform offers a slew of advantages:

Low-code Aids in Fighting Shadow IT

The demand for application development is now expanding five times greater than IT’s ability to meet it. As a result, more web apps get requested more than ever before, and IT is trying to keep up.

When consumers cannot obtain the solutions, they require from the IT department. They often turn to third-party vendors, which is a process known as “Shadow IT.”

Thankfully, IT departments can overcome this challenge by using low code platforms. They enable users to develop solutions without having to rely on IT. Ultimately, end-users can design solutions, while the IT department can govern data and user access.

Promotes Fast Delivery

Conventional market leaders will get outcompeted by companies that can promptly innovate with their software. Low code platforms excel in this regard, increasing software development speed by 50% to 80%, dependent on the tools and the endeavor.

Low Risk and High ROI

Open source low code platforms provide built-in features, including cross-platform support, data integration, and state-of-the-art security algorithms, as well as other industry standards and security practices.

As a result, users, particularly enterprises, may concentrate on more vital business duties while guaranteeing that their entire workflow is highly secure and scalable.

Cons of Low-Code

Although generally useful, open-source low code platforms are not without disadvantages, such as:

Low-code can Promote “Shadow IT.”

Although one of its benefits is combatting Shadow IT, a low code platform can potentially harm by promoting Shadow IT. How? It all depends on who spearheads the endeavor.

Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for some departments within a company to use a low-code tool without the knowledge of the IT department. This practice not only wastes resources but also poses a security concern.

Customization

One of the most common criticisms about open source low code platforms is customization. Many of these comments originate from users who have had a negative experience with one platform and expect they would have the same experience with all of the others.

Notably, customization choices differ greatly from one platform to the next. Some may restrict customizing options, while others may provide users access to the source code. Some can assist in creating applications that are tailored to a given industry, while others cannot. As a result, it is a good idea to learn about a platform’s customization limitations beforehand.

Vendor Lock-in

One of the most common concerns about open source low code platforms is vendor lock-in. Many people believe that whichever vendor they chose will bind them to it. Again, this varies depending on the vendor.

Top 5 Open Source Low Code Platforms

After sourcing for the best open source low code platforms, here are the top 5 standouts:

• Back4app
• Convertigo
• Joget
• Saltcorn
• Parse

Keep reading to know more.

Back4App

Back4App allows app designers and developers to build and modify their apps more speedily and efficiently while maintaining complete control over their backend.

The platform provides an open-source and user-friendly solution that makes it simple for users to create, host, and manage their applications.

Core Features

• Database graphical user interface
• Ready to use APIs
• Cloud Code
• Notifications
• Authentication

Pricing

• Free Tier
• Shared hosting starting at $25/month
• Dedicated hosting starting at $250/month

Convertigo

Convertigo Mobility Platform is an open-source Multi Experience Development Platform (MXDP) that companies can use to develop digitalization projects for mobile, web, and desktop utilizing a low-code approach. Users do not need to comprehend the website’s complete back-end; they need to know how to surf the site as a user.

Core Features

• Connectors
• Cross-Platform
• Offline data
• Push-Notifications
• Server side logic

Pricing

• Free Tier
• Starting at €15/month

Joget

Joget is an open-source no-code or low-code application platform enabling digital transformation that is faster and more efficient. Joget is a simple, versatile, and open platform that integrates the best business process automation, workflow management, and rapid application development.

It is visual and web-based, allowing non-coders to create and maintain apps anytime and from any location.

Core Features

• Workflow
• Form
• Lists
• Dashboards
• Visual Builders

Pricing

• Free plan
• Pricing starts at $2/month

Saltcorn

Saltcorn is another well-known open-source tool. Because it uses databases to develop applications, this software is a little more difficult to use.

Saltcorn is supported by PostgreSQL and node.js, among other programs. Saltcorn can be used to build an application’s whole backend, frontend, and database. Moreover, it has a user interface that is extremely simple to use, having a highly intuitive user interface controlled by a simple click-and-drag technique.

Core Features

• Data model
• User interface
• Templates

Pricing

• Free to download under the MIT license

Parse

Parse is still a promising, low-friction mobile back end as a service (MBaaS) for limited-volume consumer apps.

It has a JavaScript client SDK based on Backbone.js, is fully documented, and has decent native client support. Parse also executes JavaScript code on the back end, allowing developers to create an all-JavaScript application stack.

Parse is a well-designed platform that is simple to integrate into a program. Ultimately, Parse makes it simple to send messages to individuals or groups of individuals with certain characteristics.

Core Features

• Data model
• APIs
• Notifications
• Storage Connectors
• Cloud Code

Pricing

• Free to download

Conclusion

Open source low code platforms should not have had to supplant traditional development or professional software providers.

On the other hand, companies must use low-code methods to enhance and fill the holes in a conventional approach. Low-code and traditional methodologies, when used together, can result in speedier and more productive application development.

When used in conjunction with established methods, open-source low code platforms dramatically increase speed-to-market and overall business efficiency. Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all solution for boosting a company’s performance; thus, it is critical to weigh numerous choices and seek expert advice before making your decision.

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