Pro-Code vs. Low-Code/No-Code: The optimal software approach

The idea behind low-code and no-code platforms is that anyone without programming knowledge can automate a process to stay flexible in the face of constantly changing market demands. While such platforms are useful for simple applications, they often reach their limits when it comes to complex projects and scalable solutions. In this article, we examine the advantages and disadvantages of the various automation approaches and show why in-depth programming knowledge and pro-code solutions are indispensable for process automation even in the digital age.

Pro-code, no-code, low-code – that is the question?

A comparison of modern automation approaches

Pro-Code

The term pro-code refers to automation approaches using traditional methods. In this case, the specialist departments create a catalog of requirements. A concept is then created that is implemented by software developers and automated using a workflow engine. The implementation is carried out, tested and checked by experienced developers. While this approach offers a high degree of flexibility and freedom to develop exactly what is needed, it requires in-depth programming knowledge, is resource-intensive and is not cost-effective at first.

Low-Code

In contrast to pro-code platforms, low-code platforms reduce the need for extensive software programming knowledge. They are closely related to no-code platforms and enable the visual modeling and automation of processes via graphical user interfaces. Low-code platforms aim to reduce the costs of project planning, employee training and software development. However, compared to no-code platforms, low-code platforms require a certain level of technical understanding.

No-Code

No-code platforms are particularly easy to use. Thanks to visual programming and model-driven design, employees from specialist departments can become software developers – without any programming knowledge. Creating, configuring and updating automated processes is a breeze.

Advantages of pro-code platforms

Integration

Pro-code enables seamless integration into the existing system landscape and the use of specific technologies and libraries.

Complex requirements

Individual coding enables the implementation of highly complex algorithms and business logic, as well as the development of customized solutions that are precisely tailored to customer needs.

Higher quality

A clearly structured approach from conception to development, testing and documentation achieves a higher quality of automation.

Compliance and security

Pro-code solutions make it possible to comply with all security standards and compliance regulations. A preliminary analysis can be used to check aspects of data protection and IT security.

Maintainability and expandability

Existing code can be adapted. It can be expanded to meet customer-specific and business requirements.

Innovation through new technologies

Pro-code enables the use of new technologies and trends that are often not yet available in low-code and no-code platforms.

Independence

Pro-code solutions are more future-proof because they are not tied to a specific technology.

Conclusion

Low-code and no-code platforms offer a fast and cost-effective way to develop simple automation applications. However, professional software development is essential for complex projects that require a high degree of flexibility, scalability and security. A combination of both approaches can be useful to take advantage of the best of both worlds. Companies should develop a clear strategy for which use cases can be deployed on which platforms and how the roles of business and IT are defined.

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Process Automation: Low-Code, No-Code or Pro-Code