The use of low-code or no-code platform is becoming increasingly popular. That’s because these platforms make it easy for businesses to build apps easily even if they lack coding experience. The low-code platform offers visual development tools and app plugins so that organizations can design an app exactly how they like. A low-code development platform saves money and time.

The market for low-code platforms is expected to hit $15 billion by 2020. Since there are so many vendors in the market, it can be a daunting task for companies to choose the right low-code development platform. This article makes it easier for you by giving you tips to help you out. Continue reading to learn more.

1. Identify what you want your low-code platform to do for you

Faced with numerous solutions to choose from, organizations first need to do some research and identify what they need a low-code platform for. For you to decide which platform is right for your company, you must first consider the role of a low-code in your company’s setup and reduce tools that are currently used in the company.

Some of the questions the company need to ask include, will the low-code app help drive the company’s broader app delivery goals? Or is it just going to solve a particular problem? Companies need to choose a low-code platform that meets their overall goals.

By choosing a low-code platform with numerous features, the company will make simpler its IT stack, prevent redundancies, and even save time by making good use of the platform’s available features.

2. Check out the kind of app you will build using the platform

Remember that not all low-code platforms are created equal. Some will let you create various business apps while others have a specific focus.

 For example, there are low-code tools that are ideal for building mobile apps, others are best for work-flow apps, while another category focuses on data-related problems. That’s why as mentioned above, you must identify the problems you want a low-code platform to address before you choose the right tool. Buying a mobile-focused tool is a good idea, but what happens when the company needs report or workflow apps? That’s why it is recommended to invest in software that can solve multiple challenges.

3. Look at the fees a vendor charge

Don’t think that all licensed vendors are created equal. Some appear cheap upfront but you will be surprised with numerous fees you will be charged as you use it. The common fees you should ask about when choosing a low-code platform include:

• Developer fees which are charged based on the number of people who will be building the app with the platform.
• End-user seats which are fees charged based on the number of people who will use the app.
• Distribution fees are charged if the company distributes or generate the apps.
• Maintenance fees: some vendors include maintenance and support fees in the license fees while others charge them separately. So if they charge the maintenance fee separately, it’s crucial to understand what’s included in the plan.

4. Check how the vendor handles security

Security is now essential than ever due to the rampant data breach. That’s why when looking for the right low-code platform; security should be on your priority list. When it comes to the low-code platform, security is categorized into two areas: internal security and external security.

From an internal perspective, you cannot give users unlimited access to your data. So the platform should allow your IT department to control the data and user access. It should also let you secure your data. Each user should only gain access to the specific data and features they need. For external security, you should know if the generated apps are secure.

5. Check out how the vendor handles support

Customer support is an essential aspect but often overlooked. It can make or break software. Vendors handle support in different ways, including:

• Outsourced approach: there are software vendors who outsource their support to another company or oversees.  This approach can be quite frustrating and can lead to poor service delivery.
• The internal, expert approach: this is also another approach where you will be able to speak with a product expert whenever you have an issue or question. 

So it’s important to understand the option that the vendor uses before you invest in it.