Understanding Your Options
Any business owner can attest that when you're at the point when you need something to help your business run more efficiently, it can be a daunting process figuring out where to begin. Don't worry, we get it.
When deciding to adopt or develop an app, software, or system for your specific company, there are a multitude of things to consider first. Cost and complexity are often stumbling blocks for many business-owners, preventing them from deciding on which solution is best for their business. Ideally, you don't want to be stuck in an arrested development (pun intended) stage, so understanding some of the differences (or rather categories) that certain development projects fall into can help you identify what your business needs, what falls within your budget, and ultimately, which solution is best for you.
No Code: The Prefabricated House
Sometimes, simpler is better; and for most start-ups and basic business needs (whether you provide something niche or familiar), doing a 'no code' project is often more than suitable when it comes to creating a platform and using a digital system that streamlines your business needs. Thankfully, there are some great tools to leverage, and why not? You can save time and money, and get cracking sooner rather than later.
A system like Glide helps developers build more straightforward mobile and web apps. Intuitively designed user-interface templates will help you and your staff quickly get to grips with operating the new platform, while the gorgeous designs will ensure that your customers and suppliers get the best professional-looking and functioning experience. If you have a variety of spreadsheets and data points and need one simplified spot to curate it all together, this could be for you.
Think of a 'No Code' project like that of a prefabricated house. These frames and structures are already built using existing layouts and can be utilised on your property, with some minor assembly or customisation needed if you see fit. For speed, efficiency, and keeping it simple, this pre-designed option does the job.
Low-Code: The Modular Home
If you think your business might need something with a little more 'oomph' and customisation—given your business' profile and service—there is an in-between option before diving into a fully-customised development project (which can prove costly). A low-code solution, such as utilising a platform like Retool, allows developers to capitalise on the framework of pre-existing systems (whether it be a POS, CRM, or any other operational component) and tweak it to suit the unique features of your enterprise.
If you opt to use something like Retool, your business will be able to handle more complex problems, be able to automate workflows easier, and have a bit more flexibility to adjust and future-proof for any seen or unforeseen changes going forward. This is often the route chosen for businesses looking for an internal platform or app for their own workforce to use in order to make their jobs easier and more efficient.
If no code is a prefab house, low-code is a click-and-build modular home. This approach offers you various options and modules to 'click together' and allows you to customise things a little more than a pre-determined design. A little more decked-out, but maintains the simple and easy-to-use approach.
Low Code to Custom Code (Hybrid): The Custom-Built Home
For most businesses that are a fair bit larger in size and manpower, and feature more moving parts (both internally and externally), a 'low code to custom code' solution will likely be the best course of action. This hybrid-type development, utilising tools like Directus, can help create something unique and custom-curated for your business (securing a proprietary system of sorts for your operations) to give you an edge over your competitors and allow it to be customised to provide every user with a unique experience.
If you're looking for a backend solution for your employees to simplify their day-to-day operations, this hybrid approach with Directus software development is likely best. Directus provides the flexibility to build custom data models, APIs, and admin interfaces while maintaining complete control over your infrastructure and data.
When pursuing a custom code project, think of it like building a brand-new house built from scratch, where you have all the customisation options and freedom to build to your specifications; of course, that comes with its own pros and cons. However, you have complete control over every aspect, from the foundation to the finishing touches.
The Right Partner
Of course, having the right expertise that can harness these tools is crucial, and the team at Enamic is incredibly familiar, efficient, and experienced when it comes to building and supporting businesses with the right tools. Specializing in Directus software development, Enamic helps businesses leverage the power of custom code and low-code hybrid solutions to build scalable, maintainable systems. Get in touch with Enamic to find out more about how this Directus development expertise can suit your business without the fuss and complications, providing you with easy-to-understand solutions that suit your budget.