# Best Low-Code Development Platforms - Page 7

*By [Adam Crivello](https://research.g2.com/insights/author/adam-crivello)*


This page was last updated on June 9th, 2025

Low-code development platforms provide environments for the rapid creation of custom and complex enterprise applications. These platforms enable developers and other technical & semi-technical teams to build custom full-stack applications from scratch, using a combination of drag and drop and custom code.

These products allow developers without frontend expertise to build custom user interfaces (UI) using drag-and-drop and custom business logic on top of production databases and application programming interfaces (API).

In addition to streamlining core application development, these platforms address security, governance, performance, availability, observability, usage monitoring, and other enterprise requirements. This helps junior developers, IT teams, data teams, security teams, and other semi-technical teams to build custom full-stack enterprise applications far more efficiently than with traditional DIY development.

To qualify for inclusion in the Low-Code Development Platforms category, a product must:

- Provide environments to develop custom full-stack enterprise applications
- Be designed for use by developers and other technical and semi-technical teams
- Offer a visual UI builder
- Integrate with production databases and software as a service (SaaS) providers
- Allow developers to write custom frontend and backend code using modern programming languages
- Support git-based source or version control by connecting to git providers
- Offer out-of-the-box audit logging and observability





## Top Low-Code Development Platforms at a Glance
| # | Product | Rating | Best For | What Users Say |
|---|---------|--------|----------|----------------|
| 1 | [Microsoft Power Apps](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-power-apps/reviews) | 4.3/5.0 (543 reviews) | Microsoft-native low-code app automation | "[PowerApps Makes Low-Code App Building and One-Click Publishing Effortless](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/microsoft-power-apps-review-12957595)" |
| 2 | [ServiceNow App Engine](https://www.g2.com/products/servicenow-app-engine/reviews) | 4.5/5.0 (987 reviews) | Governed enterprise workflow applications | "[ServiceNow Unifies Workflows and Automates Tasks for a More Efficient Organization](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/servicenow-app-engine-review-12997471)" |
| 3 | [OutSystems](https://www.g2.com/products/outsystems/reviews) | 4.5/5.0 (1,577 reviews) | Full-stack application delivery acceleration | "[OutSystems Speeds Delivery with a Powerful Visual Low-Code Platform](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/outsystems-review-12858810)" |
| 4 | [Agentforce 360 Platform (formerly Salesforce Platform)](https://www.g2.com/products/agentforce-360-platform-formerly-salesforce-platform/reviews) | 4.5/5.0 (3,782 reviews) | Salesforce-centered workflow and data apps | "[Salesforce Handles Complex Workflows Well But Maintenance Gets Heavy](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/agentforce-360-platform-formerly-salesforce-platform-review-12804488)" |
| 5 | [UiPath Agentic Automation](https://www.g2.com/products/uipath-agentic-automation/reviews) | 4.6/5.0 (6,110 reviews) | Low-code automation of repetitive workflows | "[Extending RPA Capabilities with Agentic AI](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/uipath-agentic-automation-review-13049861)" |
| 6 | [Quickbase](https://www.g2.com/products/quickbase/reviews) | 4.5/5.0 (1,503 reviews) | Centralized operational workflow apps | "[Quickbase Delivers Real Value for Our Customers](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/quickbase-review-13041718)" |
| 7 | [Mendix](https://www.g2.com/products/mendix/reviews) | 4.4/5.0 (317 reviews) | Enterprise visual application development | "[Agile Development with Intuitive Interface](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/mendix-review-12941461)" |
| 8 | [Appian](https://www.g2.com/products/appian/reviews) | 4.5/5.0 (428 reviews) | Process-centric enterprise app automation | "[Streamlined Our Operations with Low-Code Power](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/appian-review-12900106)" |
| 9 | [AWS Step Functions](https://www.g2.com/products/aws-step-functions/reviews) | 4.2/5.0 (33 reviews) | — | "[Visual, Serverless Orchestration That Simplifies Complex AWS Workflows](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/aws-step-functions-review-12835817)" |
| 10 | [SAP Business Technology Platform](https://www.g2.com/products/sap-business-technology-platform/reviews) | 4.4/5.0 (396 reviews) | SAP extension and integration apps | "[Powerful Integration with Moderate Learning Curve](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/sap-business-technology-platform-review-12905606)" |

---
## What Are the Most Common Questions About Low-Code Development Platforms?
*AI-generated · Last updated: May 26, 2026*
### What low-code service should I use for business automation?
Based on G2 reviews, buyers evaluating low-code development platforms for business automation often prioritize workflow automation, quick deployment, and integration with existing business systems. According to verified users, Microsoft Power Apps is frequently used to replace spreadsheets, paper forms, and email-driven approvals with centralized apps and automated workflows. G2 reviewers mention that ServiceNow App Engine is also used to standardize approvals, service requests, and internal tracking across departments, while Quickbase is praised for digitizing forms and connecting cross-team processes. The strongest fit depends on whether your team needs Microsoft-centric automation, governed enterprise workflows, or flexible operational apps that business users can adapt without heavy engineering support.


### Best low-code platform for non-technical users?
Based on G2 reviews, non-technical users value platforms that reduce dependence on developers, offer intuitive builders, and make common workflows easy to launch. According to verified users, Microsoft Power Apps is repeatedly described as accessible for business users who need to build apps, forms, dashboards, and approvals without deep coding skills. G2 reviewers also mention Quickbase for easy app creation by non-technical teams and ServiceNow App Engine for low-code workflow building, though some users note a steeper learning curve in more advanced scenarios. Across recent feedback, the strongest pattern favors tools that combine drag-and-drop development with familiar data sources, reusable templates, and enough flexibility to support day-to-day operational needs.

**Here are some of the top-rated products on G2:**

- [Microsoft Power Apps](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-power-apps/reviews) – often used by business users to build internal apps, approvals, dashboards, and forms without deep coding knowledge
- [Quickbase](https://www.g2.com/products/quickbase/reviews) – well suited for non-technical teams creating workflow apps, intake forms, and centralized reporting from spreadsheet-based processes
- [ServiceNow App Engine](https://www.g2.com/products/servicenow-app-engine/reviews) – helps teams create governed workflow apps and service processes while keeping IT visibility and control


### Top-rated low-code software for mobile app development?
Based on G2 reviews, buyers looking for mobile app development within low-code development platforms often focus on speed, multi-device support, and the ability to reuse workflows across web and mobile. According to verified users, Microsoft Power Apps is commonly used for apps that run across desktop and mobile, especially for internal workflows tied to Microsoft data sources. G2 reviewers also highlight OutSystems for building web and mobile applications from one environment, with strong emphasis on rapid delivery and enterprise app support. Mendix is mentioned as another option for quickly developing apps with strong visual modeling and cross-platform deployment. Reviewers consistently value fast iteration, reusable components, and integration flexibility.

**Here are some of the top-rated products on G2:**

- [Microsoft Power Apps](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-power-apps/reviews) – frequently used for internal business apps that run on desktop and mobile with Microsoft ecosystem integrations
- [OutSystems](https://www.g2.com/products/outsystems/reviews) – used to build web and mobile apps quickly from one platform with strong deployment and lifecycle support
- [Mendix](https://www.g2.com/products/mendix/reviews) – supports fast cross-platform app delivery with visual modeling and reusable components for enterprise scenarios


### Which low-code development platform is the best for enterprise solutions?
Based on G2 reviews, Microsoft Power Apps stands out as the single most visible choice in this recent review set for enterprise low-code needs. According to verified users, it is widely used to centralize data, automate approvals, replace manual workflows, and extend existing Microsoft environments without full custom development. G2 reviewers mention that it fits naturally with tools like SharePoint, Teams, Outlook, Excel, Dataverse, and Power Automate, which helps larger organizations launch internal applications faster. Reviewers also note tradeoffs around licensing complexity, performance at scale, and advanced customization, but the overall pattern shows strong enterprise adoption for workflow automation, internal tools, and business apps delivered with less engineering overhead.


### Best low-code platform for small business apps?
Based on G2 reviews, small business app buyers often look for quick setup, low technical barriers, and enough flexibility to replace spreadsheets or disconnected processes. According to verified users, Quickbase is frequently used to centralize operational data, build custom apps quickly, and support teams without deep development resources. G2 reviewers also describe Microsoft Power Apps as a practical option for businesses already using Microsoft tools, especially for forms, approvals, dashboards, and lightweight workflow automation. UI Bakery appears in reviews as a fast way to create internal apps and client-facing interfaces with less coding effort. The strongest review themes center on speed, usability, and the ability to adapt apps as processes change.

**Here are some of the top-rated products on G2:**

- [Quickbase](https://www.g2.com/products/quickbase/reviews) – commonly used to replace spreadsheets with customizable workflow apps, dashboards, and centralized operational tracking
- [Microsoft Power Apps](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-power-apps/reviews) – works well for small teams building approvals, data collection apps, and internal tools around Microsoft data sources
- [UI Bakery](https://www.g2.com/products/ui-bakery/reviews) – helps teams create internal apps and dashboards quickly with low-code tooling and data integrations


### What is the best low-code environment for startups?
Based on G2 reviews, startup teams usually need speed, flexibility, and the ability to launch useful tools without a large engineering staff. According to verified users, Quickbase is used to move away from spreadsheets and quickly stand up custom workflows, reporting, and operational apps. G2 reviewers also mention UI Bakery for fast app creation when teams want to build interfaces and dashboards without deep coding, and OutSystems for rapid development when startups need stronger full-stack capabilities. Reviewers consistently value platforms that help them prototype quickly, automate manual work, and adjust processes without rebuilding everything from scratch. The right choice often depends on whether the startup prioritizes operations apps, internal tools, or broader application delivery.

**Here are some of the top-rated products on G2:**

- [Quickbase](https://www.g2.com/products/quickbase/reviews) – useful for startups replacing spreadsheets with centralized workflow apps, reporting, and process tracking
- [UI Bakery](https://www.g2.com/products/ui-bakery/reviews) – supports fast creation of internal tools, dashboards, and lightweight apps without a full frontend team
- [OutSystems](https://www.g2.com/products/outsystems/reviews) – helps teams deliver applications quickly with built-in deployment, integrations, and reusable components


### What's the best low-code platform for custom app creation?
Based on G2 reviews, custom app creation buyers tend to value flexibility, integration options, and enough control to support unique workflows. According to verified users, Microsoft Power Apps is often chosen to build tailored business apps around approvals, CRM-style processes, data collection, dashboards, and workflow automation. G2 reviewers mention that users can connect SharePoint, Excel, Teams, Outlook, Dataverse, and Power Automate to create apps that fit existing processes rather than forcing teams into rigid tools. Reviewers also point out tradeoffs around UI flexibility, debugging, and scaling more complex apps, but the platform is repeatedly described as a practical way to move from idea to functioning app quickly while keeping the development burden relatively low.


### Best-reviewed low-code platforms for IT departments?
Based on G2 reviews, IT departments often prioritize governance, integration depth, deployment speed, and the ability to support internal users without creating more manual work. According to verified users, Microsoft Power Apps is widely used for internal tools, process automation, and data centralization across Microsoft environments. G2 reviewers also highlight ServiceNow App Engine for governed application delivery tied to workflow automation, approvals, and internal service processes. OutSystems appears in recent reviews for teams that need faster application development with stronger engineering control, built-in deployment support, and reusable components. The review pattern suggests IT teams benefit most from platforms that balance business-user speed with the controls needed for scale, support, and maintainability.

**Here are some of the top-rated products on G2:**

- [Microsoft Power Apps](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-power-apps/reviews) – supports IT-led automation, internal app delivery, and data integration across Microsoft business systems
- [ServiceNow App Engine](https://www.g2.com/products/servicenow-app-engine/reviews) – fits IT departments managing workflow apps, governance, approvals, and enterprise service processes
- [OutSystems](https://www.g2.com/products/outsystems/reviews) – helps technical teams build and maintain enterprise apps quickly with stronger deployment and lifecycle management


### Leading low-code tool for developing office apps?
Based on G2 reviews, office app development usually centers on forms, approvals, data entry, reporting, dashboards, and integrations with everyday workplace tools. According to verified users, Microsoft Power Apps is consistently used to create internal office applications connected to SharePoint, Excel, Teams, Outlook, Dataverse, and Power Automate. G2 reviewers mention use cases such as CRM workflows, internal approvals, design project tracking, onboarding, ticketing, dashboards, and replacing paper or spreadsheet-based processes. Reviewers value how quickly teams can launch practical workplace tools without full custom development. While some users note limitations around advanced UI customization, licensing complexity, and performance on larger apps, the platform is strongly associated with office productivity use cases.


### Best low-code solution for web app builders?
Based on G2 reviews, web app builders tend to prioritize development speed, visual tooling, integrations, and enough flexibility to launch useful applications without building every layer from scratch. According to verified users, OutSystems is repeatedly used to build web and mobile applications quickly, with strong support for reusable components, deployment, and lifecycle management. G2 reviewers also mention Microsoft Power Apps for internal web apps tied to business workflows and UI Bakery for fast creation of dashboards, portals, and internal applications with less coding effort. Across reviews, the strongest signals favor platforms that reduce boilerplate work, speed up prototypes, and help teams deliver production-ready apps faster while keeping maintenance manageable.

**Here are some of the top-rated products on G2:**

- [OutSystems](https://www.g2.com/products/outsystems/reviews) – frequently used for rapid web app delivery with reusable components, deployment support, and strong integration capabilities
- [Microsoft Power Apps](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-power-apps/reviews) – well suited for browser-based internal business apps, forms, dashboards, and workflow-driven tools
- [UI Bakery](https://www.g2.com/products/ui-bakery/reviews) – helps teams build dashboards, portals, and internal web apps quickly with low-code UI and API integration support




## How Many Low-Code Development Platforms Products Does G2 Track?
**Total Products under this Category:** 142

### Category Stats (Jul 2026)
- **Average Rating**: 4.48/5 (↓0.01 vs Jun 2026) The average rating of products in this category, based on all submitted ratings
- **Top Trending Product**: Appian (+0.29%) - Among all products in this category, Appian recorded the largest rating increase compared to last month
*Last updated: July 06, 2026*


## How Does G2 Rank Low-Code Development Platforms Products?

**Why You Can Trust G2's Software Rankings:**

- 30 Analysts and Data Experts
- 30,700+ Authentic Reviews
- 142+ Products
- Unbiased Rankings

G2's software rankings are built on verified user reviews, rigorous moderation, and a consistent research methodology maintained by a team of analysts and data experts. Each product is measured using the same transparent criteria, with no paid placement or vendor influence. While reviews reflect real user experiences, which can be subjective, they offer valuable insight into how software performs in the hands of professionals. Together, these inputs power the G2 Score, a standardized way to compare tools within every category.


## Which Low-Code Development Platforms Is Best for Your Use Case?

- **Leader:** [Microsoft Power Apps](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-power-apps/reviews)
- **Highest Performer:** [App Builder](https://www.g2.com/products/appbuilder/reviews)
- **Easiest to Use:** [Emakin](https://www.g2.com/products/emakin/reviews)
- **Top Trending:** [UI Bakery](https://www.g2.com/products/ui-bakery/reviews)
- **Best Free Software:** [OutSystems](https://www.g2.com/products/outsystems/reviews)


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---


## Low-Code Development Platforms Features & Capabilities

### What are the Best Low-Code Development Platforms with Workflows?
Allows the creation ofpage sequences, forms, and libraries for users navigating the application. 

**Top-rated Low-Code Development Platforms for Workflows:**
- [Microsoft Power Apps](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-power-apps/reviews)
- [ServiceNow App Engine](https://www.g2.com/products/servicenow-app-engine/reviews)
- [OutSystems](https://www.g2.com/products/outsystems/reviews)
[Explore Low-Code Development Platforms with Workflows](https://www.g2.com/categories/low-code-development-platforms/f/workflows)

### What are the Best Low-Code Development Platforms with UI Code Extending?
Gives users the ability to edit or write custom HTML, Javascript or CSS code. 

**Top-rated Low-Code Development Platforms for UI Code Extending:**
- [Microsoft Power Apps](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-power-apps/reviews)
- [ServiceNow App Engine](https://www.g2.com/products/servicenow-app-engine/reviews)
- [OutSystems](https://www.g2.com/products/outsystems/reviews)
[Explore Low-Code Development Platforms with UI Code Extending](https://www.g2.com/categories/low-code-development-platforms/f/ui-code-extending)

### What are the Best Low-Code Development Platforms with Lifecycle Management?
Provides ability to manage application and maintenance from build, throughout the release, and until it's deactivation.

**Top-rated Low-Code Development Platforms for Lifecycle Management:**
- [Microsoft Power Apps](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-power-apps/reviews)
- [ServiceNow App Engine](https://www.g2.com/products/servicenow-app-engine/reviews)
- [OutSystems](https://www.g2.com/products/outsystems/reviews)
[Explore Low-Code Development Platforms with Lifecycle Management](https://www.g2.com/categories/low-code-development-platforms/f/lifecycle-management)

### What are the Best Low-Code Development Platforms with Programming Code Extending?
Allows users to edit or write custom code with programming languages. 

**Top-rated Low-Code Development Platforms for Programming Code Extending:**
- [Microsoft Power Apps](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-power-apps/reviews)
- [ServiceNow App Engine](https://www.g2.com/products/servicenow-app-engine/reviews)
- [OutSystems](https://www.g2.com/products/outsystems/reviews)
[Explore Low-Code Development Platforms with Programming Code Extending](https://www.g2.com/categories/low-code-development-platforms/f/programming-code-extending)

### What are the Best Low-Code Development Platforms with Application Deployment?
Releases the application for access on desktop or mobile devices.

**Top-rated Low-Code Development Platforms for Application Deployment:**
- [Microsoft Power Apps](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-power-apps/reviews)
- [ServiceNow App Engine](https://www.g2.com/products/servicenow-app-engine/reviews)
- [OutSystems](https://www.g2.com/products/outsystems/reviews)
[Explore Low-Code Development Platforms with Application Deployment](https://www.g2.com/categories/low-code-development-platforms/f/application-deployment)



## What Is Low-Code Development Platforms?

[Rapid Application Development (RAD) Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/rapid-application-development-rad)

## What Software Categories Are Similar to Low-Code Development Platforms?

- [No-Code Development Platforms](https://www.g2.com/categories/no-code-development-platforms)
- [Digital Process Automation (DPA) Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/digital-process-automation-dpa)
- [Application Development Platforms ](https://www.g2.com/categories/application-development-platforms)


---

## How Do You Choose the Right Low-Code Development Platforms?

### What You Should Know About Low-Code Development Platforms Software

### What are Low-Code Development Platforms?

Low-code development platforms provide an environment for developing applications and building new processes with automated workflows, all with minimal coding. These platforms enable rapid application development by minimizing the need for extensive coding experience and streamlining the development process. Most low-code development platforms have a user-friendly graphical interface instead of integrated development environments, the latter of which offer greater functionality through traditional computer programming tools. Low-code development platforms that handle business process creation often feature a drag-and-drop interface through which users can connect action points to create a workflow. Unlike no-code development platforms, low-code development platforms let users create and alter source code if necessary.

The versatility in low-code development platforms allows for many use cases. Teams of experienced developers benefit from the coding functionality in low-code platforms, while businesses that need to create an application quickly but have no coding experience, benefit from never having to touch the source code. An ideal scenario is one in which nontechnical users (or “citizen developers”) can build the bulk of a custom application, with developers then filling in gaps or adding custom functionality. This flexibility allows more people to contribute to a project without slowing the process with multiple meetings. Both developers and non-developers use these tools to practice rapid application development with customized workflows and expanded functionality.

#### What Types of Low-Code Development Platforms Exist?

**Platforms for business applications**

Most enterprise low-code development platforms grant users the ability to create internal-facing business applications with minimal coding. This allows non-technical users to collaborate in real time with programmers to create custom apps with powerful business logic according to the company’s needs. The types of business apps created can vary from simple solutions for employee time tracking, to full-blown [CRM software](https://www.g2.com/categories/crm). 

**Platforms for process creation and management**

Many low-code development platforms offer companies a clear path to digital transformation via business process creation and management. These tools grant users the ability to build completely customized processes via a visual user interface with minimal coding. These platforms perform functions similar to [business process management (BPM)](https://www.g2.com/categories/business-process-management) software, but go further to allow for outright process creation at the code level.

**Platforms for user-facing applications and websites**

Some low-code development platforms allow non-technical users to create external-facing applications and websites, such as client portals or appointment scheduling software. These solutions enable businesses to leverage the benefits of low-code development and create software that will delight their current and potential customers. It is important to note that the combination of non-developers with consumer-facing apps can come with inherent risk, as non-developers may be less familiar with security best practices. ** **

### What are the Common Features of Low-Code Development Platforms?

**Code extensibility:** Unlike no-code development platforms, which exclusively offer no-code drag-and-drop development tools, low-code development platforms let developers edit or write custom code with programming languages. The ability to write and adjust code when necessary gives companies more control over their app development, while still benefiting from the streamlined development tools and automation offered by low-code platforms.

**No-code development:** Low-code development platforms offer no-code, drag-and-drop application development tools. These tools let admins with little or no coding experience build relevant applications that help automate workflows and business processes. Experienced coders use the no-code development features offered by low-code development platforms to streamline their development process with minimal coding necessary to achieve their desired result.

**Workflow templates:** Many low-code development platforms include suggested workflow templates that users can easily tweak to suit their needs. Because low-code development platforms are often used to create automated workflows, this feature makes this process faster and more efficient.

**Application deployment:** Low-code development platforms allow users to build and deploy their developed applications on cloud services. This functionality expedites the development cycle while keeping everything housed in one central hub, helping organize workflow.

**Application lifecycle management:** Low-code development platforms enable users to manage their applications every step of the way, from planning to building, testing, and deployment. The ability to manage the entire lifecycle of an application means that developers can seamlessly incorporate continuous integration and delivery (CI/CD) as part of their DevOps process.

Other Features of Low-Code Development Platforms: [Application templates](https://www.g2.com/categories/low-code-development-platforms/f/application-templates), [Apps and websites](https://www.g2.com/categories/low-code-development-platforms/f/apps-and-websites), [Customized branding](https://www.g2.com/categories/low-code-development-platforms/f/customized-branding), [Forms](https://www.g2.com/categories/low-code-development-platforms/f/forms), [Platform compatibility](https://www.g2.com/categories/low-code-development-platforms/f/platform-compatability), [Process automation](https://www.g2.com/categories/low-code-development-platforms/f/process-automation), [Workflows](https://www.g2.com/categories/low-code-development-platforms/f/workflows)

### What are the Benefits of Low-Code Development Platforms?

**Ease of use:** Low-code development platforms, despite their name, often don’t require any coding experience at all. Users who have never coded in their life can use low-code development platforms to build the tools and applications they need. When necessary, teams can then hand off development to experienced programmers who can take advantage of finer controls like source code creation and tweaking.

**Depth of functionality:** Unlike no-code development platforms, which limit users to drag-and-drop application development, low-code application development platforms offer both simplicity and depth of functionality. Experienced coders can use low-code development platforms to rapidly build applications with the added ability to edit the underlying source code as well. This accessibility grants seasoned developers more control over their builds while also offering development speed and efficiency.

**Team collaboration:** Because low-code development platforms benefit both developers and non-developers, they enable maximized levels of team collaboration. Businesses that need to rapidly develop applications can assign tasks to team members with all levels of coding experience, making collaboration more seamless and less frustrating. This collaboration improves project pipelines by ensuring all relevant parties stay on the same page.

**Shorter development cycle:** With low-code development platforms, teams can build applications without writing the underlying code from scratch. The prebuilt framework and tools offered by low-code development platforms allow faster development timelines.

### Who Uses Low-Code Development Platforms?

**Non-developers:** Non-developers can collaborate on product development and rollouts, and process creation and management using low-code development platforms. Low-code development platforms are easy to use and have many no-code features. As a result, non-developers can perform software development tasks without extensive coding knowledge.

**Developers:** Developers use low-code development platforms to rapidly build applications with the added ability to write and tweak the underlying source code. Low-code development platforms offer deep functionality for experienced developers while also shortening development cycles.

### What are the Alternatives to Low-code Development Platforms?

Alternatives to low-code development platforms can replace this type of software, either partially or completely:

[**No-code development platforms:**](https://www.g2.com/categories/no-code-development-platforms) No-code development platforms allow businesses to rapidly build applications without code via drag-and-drop interfaces. Unlike low-code development platforms, no-code platforms don’t offer custom coding functionality. However, no-code development platforms are perfect for non-developers who want to create simple applications without hand coding.

[**Workplace innovation platforms:**](https://www.g2.com/categories/workplace-innovation-platforms) Workplace innovation platforms are high productivity collaborative development tools used by both developers and non-developers to solve business challenges not addressed by existing systems. While they sometimes overlap with low-code development platforms, they distinguish themselves by providing more robust full-stack development capabilities.

### Challenges with Low-Code Development Platforms

Software solutions can come with their own set of challenges. 

**Limited project scale:** Low-code development platforms are always great for building small- to mid-scale applications such as databases and automated workflows. However, a low-code app may fall short of enterprise-grade applications. Low-code development platforms’ emphasis on minimal coding is great for accessibility and development speed but can be a hindrance when application goals are more complex. To tackle critical enterprise applications, developers often need to work in a fully integrated development environment (IDE) to have total control over the development cycle.

**Practical effectiveness:** Depending on the low-code development platform businesses adopt, development teams can find hypothetical benefits lacking in real-world application. A low-code development platform’s effectiveness in facilitating rapid application development depends on the balance it strikes between custom coding and no-code functionality. Limited coding ability means limited use cases, while code-heavy development tools can make the software inaccessible for business users without coding experience. It is vital that companies develop a clear plan to ultimately find the low-code development platform that best addresses their business needs.

### Which Companies Should Buy Low-Code Development Platforms?

Companies seeking to innovate their digital portfolios and optimize their workflows can benefit from low-code development platforms. These tools have the potential to break down silos for better cross-team collaboration and alignment while also increasing an organization’s output as they continuously iterate at a competitive pace.

### How to Buy Low-Code Development Platforms

#### Requirements Gathering (RFI/RFP) for Low-Code Development Platforms

Whether a company is looking for a low-code development platform to take the next step in their digital transformation journey or wanting to replace legacy software, g2.com can help find the best tool.

Some of the most important aspects to consider when searching for low-code development platforms are pricing structure, feature set, and use cases. For example, a company may be looking for a straightforward app creation tool rather than paying for a robust, multifaceted platform to serve as their employees’ new virtual workspace. One might also consider whether a platform is better suited for mobile apps, or how much customization the platform allows for personalized branding. Buyers should zero in on the features they need to answer their current business problem, then reference G2 reviews to find the right fit and ensure that they find the right tool in alignment with their plan. 

Clearly defining one’s use case can help narrow down the potential pool of low-code development platforms, allowing teams to then apply further considerations for budget, ease of integration with other systems, security requirements, and more. This holistic approach empowers buyers to move forward with a focused checklist, which can be used in conjunction with G2 scoring to select the best low-code development platform for the business.

#### Compare Low-Code Development Platforms Products

**Create a long list**

Buyers should begin with a large pool of low-code development platform vendors. Keeping the well-defined use cases and implementation plan in mind, it is important that buyers perform consistent inquiries during demos by which they can effectively compare the pros and cons of each software solution. 

**Create a short list**

Authentic G2 reviews from like-minded buyers can supplement a feature set and pricing matrix, the combination of which will help to narrow in on a short three to five product list. From there, buyers can compare products directly to determine the best fit.

**Conduct demos**

Regardless of on-paper comparisons, companies should always demo all of the products on their short list. During demos, buyers should ask questions related to the functionalities and use cases that are the most important for their business. For example, a buyer looking for a low-code business process creation tool might ask to be walked through that journey from definition to execution. 

#### Selection of Low-Code Development Platforms

**Choose a selection team**

It’s important to involve any relevant personas when beginning the low-code development platform selection process. Larger companies may include individual team members to fill roles such as project manager, decision maker, and a group of non-developers and developers who will be working with the software most closely. Smaller companies with fewer employees might overlap roles. 

**Negotiation**

Low-code development platforms can fill a variety of use cases, and many companies offer solutions that go beyond certain companies’ needs. For example, a platform may offer both low-code business application development and low-code process creation. While some companies may be unwilling to negotiate the configurations of their packages, buyers looking to save money should try to negotiate down to the specific functions that matter to them in order to get the best price. A vendor’s pricing page might indicate that the buyer’s desired functionality is only included with a robust all-in-one package, whereas a sales conversation may prove otherwise. 

**Final decision**

After this stage, it is important to perform a trial run if possible with a small selection of developers and non-developers. This will help to ensure that the low-code development platform of choice allows for smooth collaboration across teams and solves one or more business problems. If the platform is well liked, well utilized, and provides satisfactory results, the buyer can take that as a sign that they’ve made the right call. If not, it may be time to consider other options.