An honest review of no-code apps
JavaScript, Python, C#, PHP, C++, and so on.
Sounds intimidating, right?
Well, these are just a few languages used in programming.
Programming may sound intimidating to many people. Programmers have the skill of logic, problem-solving skills, creativity, writing, mathematical skills, and analytical skills. And through these skills, they are able to build good quality software.
Does it mean non-technical people won’t be able to build software?
Non-technical people are now able to build their own software such as apps with the help of no-code app builders. No-code apps sound appealing, but are they really worth it?
Let’s take a look at their pros and cons.
Pros
Can be used by non-technical people
A code intimidates a lot of non-technical people. If you don’t know how to read and write codes, you would never build your dream apps. No-code platforms solved this issue. No-code platforms are designed for people who have no knowledge in coding or for someone having a hard time hiring someone who will help them.
No-code app builders use visual development interfaces to help people build and design apps by simply dragging and dropping software apps and features.
Easier fixes and changes
Since it is a visual development interface, you can fix and change it by simply moving stuff around. If you want or need to change something on your app, you could fix it on your own at any of your convenience. You don’t have to wait for someone to fix and do some troubleshooting for you.
Reduced cost and saves time
IT professionals build an app with basic features varies from $5,000 to $50,000, while no-code app builders offer free up to $530 per month. You can build on your own or hire someone, not a team.
Building apps with IT professionals take 3 to 9 months, or even a year to develop. While no-code apps won’t take more than a few hours up to a few weeks to build.
Cons
Lack of control
When you build apps in any no-code platform, you are only their user. Whatever you build isn’t actually yours. Basically, you are a person who purchases what they have to offer. This means that you don’t have 100% control over the code. If they make changes that you don’t like, you have no choice but to compromise and accept them.
Prone to security issues
Since you do not control the implementation of the app, you also don’t know how the app is securely built. You can’t modify or update it to the latest security hacks. Probably, they won’t tell you if your app has a vulnerability or not. This means that your data might be vulnerable as well to cyber attacks.
Still requires significant logic & design
Yes, you don’t have to create codes, but it doesn’t mean you won’t do your research at all. What makes a good app? What does a good app design look like? It’s either you’ll have to do some research or hire someone who can help you. Because if your app isn’t appealing in the first place, there’s a big chance that people won’t use nor download it.
Limited storage services
No-code apps have limited storage services. You don’t have to be surprised if you find out that your data has not been saved or not stored properly. Since it has limited storage, this also limits your creativity and what you can build.
Not scalable enough
No-code apps are not built to be scalable. A scalable app should be capable of high-speed service for any number of users, and efficient operation even at very high loads. Apps should be scalable especially if it is a business app, otherwise, facing organizational downfall isn’t impossible.
You don’t own it
Here’s the last one. Let’s make it short and simple. If it isn’t your code, you don’t own the app that you’re running.
Conclusion
No-code apps are perfect for people who are on a budget and need the help of software as soon as possible. They give you an app that looks almost the same as the traditional apps. However, the answer if the no-code apps are worth it still depends on you. But one thing is for sure — learning to code or hiring professional programmers to help you build software is worth it.
Programming is a language. You should be able to communicate with people wisely.
