When building software in code, a programmer would need to translate each command into lines of machine-readable code.
In a no-code-based application platform (the type of no-code tool we are focusing on), all key components of the software, including front-end elements, back-end processes, and third-party integrations are represented in graphical form, which can be readily ordered and manipulated in a visual UI. The platform then executes those graphic representations of commands as if they are written in code.
Even better, the same simplification and acceleration of initial builds also come into play when making changes down the road, so organizations can rapidly adjust their digital infrastructure to take on disruptions of any scale.
Is there still code in a no-code application?
Yes and no. From the perspective of the user building the application, there is no code, because they only need to access the visual UI. In many no-code systems, users don’t even have access to the editable codebase. But on the backend, the application is still very much running on code; otherwise, the computer would have no way of understanding what to do! The codebase is automatically generated and updated by the platform based on what the user does in the UI. With no-code, users can focus on UX and application logic and never have to think about syntax.
But not all no-code is created equal
No-code isn’t a new technology breakthrough. WYSIWYG web editors from the 90s were technically no-code. However, until recently, most no-code tools were focused on helping users with limited coding expertise build basic digital creations (e.g., static “brochure” websites) or to streamline niche business tasks (e.g., simple integrators).
Today, a new generation of enterprise-grade no-code application platforms such as Unqork have radically expanded the scope and capabilities of no-code. These platforms empower large organizations to rapidly develop and effectively manage sophisticated, scalable solutions without writing a single line of code.
There are a variety of no-code tools on the market. While they all allow users to develop software without writing code, they aren’t necessarily suited to developing robust enterprise software.