Workflow automation has become essential for companies looking to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and stay competitive. Two popular approaches to implementing workflow automation are low code and/or no code platforms to help with implementing faster. But what exactly are these options, and how do they differ? Secondly, how does the buy vs. build mentality play into the decision-making process when choosing the right workflow automation solution for your team/organization? We share some insights below...

What is Low Code Workflow Automation Software?

Low code platforms are designed to minimize the amount of hand-coding required to build applications. They provide a visual development environment where developers can drag and drop components, automate workflows, and integrate systems with minimal coding effort. While some coding is still necessary, low code platforms significantly reduce development time and complexity.

Key Features of Low Code Workflow Automation Software:

• Visual development interfaces
• Pre-built templates and components
• Integration capabilities with existing systems
• Customizable with minimal coding

What is No Code Workflow Automation Software?

No code platforms take the concept of low code a step further by eliminating the need for any coding at all. These platforms empower non-technical users to create and manage applications through intuitive, visual interfaces. No code platforms are ideal for businesses that want to enable their employees to develop solutions without relying on IT or development teams.

Key Features of No Code:

• Completely visual development environment
• User-friendly drag-and-drop tools
• Pre-configured templates and workflows
• Rapid application development

Low Code vs. No Code Workflow Automation Differences

While both low code and no code platforms aim to simplify the application development process, there are some key differences between the two.

Customization and Flexibility

• Low Code: Offers more customization and flexibility, allowing developers to add custom code when necessary. This makes it suitable for complex applications that require specific functionality.
• No Code: Provides less customization but is easier to use. It's ideal for simpler applications where standard functionality is sufficient.

Target Users

• Low Code: Targeted towards professional developers or technically skilled users who need to develop and deploy applications quickly.
• No Code: Designed for business users and non-developers who need to create applications without technical skills.

Development Speed

• Low Code: Faster than traditional development methods but may require more time than no code platforms due to the need for some coding.
• No Code: Enables the fastest development and deployment, allowing users to build applications in hours or days.

Complexity of Applications

• Low Code: Suitable for both simple and complex applications, providing the flexibility to handle intricate workflows and integrations.
• No Code: Best for straightforward applications with minimal complexity.

When it comes to implementing workflow automation, businesses often face the decision of whether to buy a ready-made solution or build a custom one. Here’s how low code and no code platforms fit into this decision.

The "Buy" Low-Code No-Code Workflow Mentality

Buying a pre-built workflow automation solution means selecting a vendor-provided platform that meets most of your business needs out of the box. This approach is often quicker and less risky but may come with limitations in customization and flexibility. It is important to understand the limitations in advance so you don't impact future growth. With FlowWright the sky is the limit; that's why organizations around the globe select us as their base when building on top of our .NET Microsoft tech stack.

Advantages of Buying:

• Speed: Ready-to-use solutions can be implemented quickly.
• Reliability: Established platforms have been tested and used by other businesses.
• Support: Vendors typically provide support and maintenance.

Disadvantages of Buying:

• Limited Customization: May not meet all specific business requirements.
• Dependency: Reliance on the vendor for updates and changes.
• Cost: Can be expensive, especially for enterprise-grade solutions.

The "Build" Low-Code No-Code Workflow Mentality

Building a custom workflow automation solution involves developing an application tailored to your specific needs. This can be done using low code or no code platforms, allowing for significant customization and flexibility.

Advantages of Building:

• Customization: Tailor the solution to meet precise business needs.
• Control: Full control over the functionality and future developments.
• Scalability: Build a solution that scales with your business.\

Disadvantages of Building:

• Time-Consuming: Development and deployment take longer compared to buying.
• Resource Intensive: Requires significant investment in development resources.
• Risk: Higher risk of issues during development and maintenance.

The Right Approach To Choosing Buy vs Build

The decision between low code and no code, and whether to buy or build, depends on several factors:

• Business Needs: Assess the complexity and specific requirements of your workflows.
• Resources: Consider the availability of development resources and technical expertise. The more bandwidth you put on your teams for building, how will that impact future road-map and project growth?
• Time: Evaluate the urgency of implementing a solution and understand short and long-term ramp times
• Budget: Balance the costs of buying versus building a solution; man hours for all teams should be considered

Low code and no code platforms offer powerful tools for workflow automation. As discussed above, should your team choose to buy a ready-made solution or build a custom one the options for short and long-term investments should be considered.

When teams leverage the right technologies and strategies, businesses can streamline their operations and position themselves for success in an increasingly competitive landscape. Keep reading our blog for our latest process management tips, and check out our business process automation software to learn more!