Low code development platforms (LCDPs) are becoming increasingly popular, as they allow businesses to create and deploy applications quickly and easily, without the need for traditional coding skills. However, while LCDPs offer a number of benefits, there are also some hidden dangers that businesses should be aware of before adopting them.
In this article, we will discuss six of the most common hidden dangers of low code, and provide some tips on how to mitigate them.
1. Security risks
One of the biggest concerns about low code is that it can make applications more vulnerable to security attacks. This is because LCDPs often use pre-built components and templates, which can contain security vulnerabilities. Additionally, non-technical users may not be aware of or understand the security implications of their code, which can lead to security misconfigurations.
To mitigate security risks, businesses should:
Choose a low code platform with a strong security track record.
Implement security best practices, such as using strong passwords, encrypting data, and regularly testing applications for vulnerabilities.
Educate non-technical users about security best practices.
2. Shadow IT
Another concern with low code is that it can lead to shadow IT. Shadow IT is when employees create and use applications outside of the IT department's control. This can be a security risk, as it can be difficult to track and manage shadow IT applications. Additionally, shadow IT applications may not meet the organization's security and compliance requirements.
To mitigate shadow IT risks, businesses should:
Communicate the benefits of using low code to employees and encourage them to work with the IT department to develop and deploy applications.
Provide employees with access to secure low code platforms and resources.
Monitor for and address shadow IT applications.
3. Vendor lock-in
Another hidden danger of low code is vendor lock-in. Vendor lock-in occurs when a business becomes dependent on a particular low code platform. This can make it difficult and expensive to switch to a different platform in the future.
To mitigate vendor lock-in risks, businesses should:
Choose a low code platform that offers a high degree of flexibility and customization.
Avoid platforms that require you to use proprietary components or templates.
Make sure that the platform you choose has a roadmap for future development.
4. Technical debt
Technical debt is the accumulation of code and design decisions that make it difficult to change or maintain an application in the future. Low code can make it easy to create applications quickly, but it can also lead to technical debt if not used carefully.
To mitigate technical debt risks, businesses should:
Use a low code platform that enforces good coding practices.
Conduct regular code reviews and refactoring.
Implement unit tests and integration tests.
5. Performance and scalability issues
Low code applications can sometimes perform poorly or scale poorly, especially if they are not designed correctly. This is because LCDPs often use pre-built components and templates, which may not be optimized for performance or scalability.
To mitigate performance and scalability risks, businesses should:
Choose a low code platform that is designed for performance and scalability.
Use a load testing tool to test the performance of applications under load.
Optimize the design of applications to improve performance and scalability.
6. Lack of support
Some low code platforms offer limited support, which can be a problem if businesses need help developing or deploying applications. Additionally, some LCDPs are relatively new, so there may not be a large community of users and developers who can provide support.
To mitigate support risks, businesses should:
Choose a low code platform that offers a good support plan.
Look for platforms with a large and active community of users and developers.
Make sure that the platform you choose has a roadmap for future support.
Real-world examples
Here are some real-world examples of the hidden dangers of low code:
In 2020, a major financial services company was hit by a data breach that exposed the personal information of millions of customers. The breach was caused by a vulnerability in a low code application that was developed by a non-technical employee.
In 2021, a healthcare provider was sued by patients after their medical records were exposed in a data breach. The breach was caused by a security misconfiguration in a low code application that was used to manage patient records.
In 2022, a retail company was forced to shut down its website after it was hit by a denial-of-service attack. The attack was targeted at a low code application that was used to power the website.
These examples show that the hidden dangers of low code are real and can have serious consequences for businesses. Businesses should carefully consider the risks before adopting low code, and take steps to mitigate these risks.
Conclusion
Low-code development platforms have been touted as offering numerous advantages for businesses. Nonetheless, it is crucial for businesses to be aware of the potential hidden dangers that come with these platforms.
For instance, these platforms may lead to a lack of control over the code being developed, which can result in security vulnerabilities. What's more, the use of these platforms may also lead to a lack of understanding of the software development process, which can make it difficult to make necessary changes or updates in the future.
As such, businesses should carefully evaluate the risks and benefits of using low-code development platforms prior to implementing them.
And that's it for today 🫡. See you soon in the next article. Until then, keep developing solutions and solving problems.