Inhibitors of Low-Code/No-Code Software Development: A Literature Review and Case Study Approach

Abstract

Digital transformation requires the digitalization of business processes. Organizations and vendors are in search of a panacea. In recent years, there has been a growing proliferation of low-code/no-code platforms. These platforms are designed to facilitate the development of software artifacts with minimal or no coding required. Given the shortage of IT professionals, who often also lack the necessary domain-specific business knowledge, many end users are increasingly turning to low-code/no-code solutions. Vendors of these platforms typically emphasize their advantages, which most commonly include ease of use and rapid development of software products. Other frequently cited drivers include cheaper software development, reduced dependency on IT departments, accelerated business process automation, and enhanced end-user innovation. However, what platform vendors often omit, but what organizations are increasingly becoming aware of, are the numerous challenges and inhibitors faced by end users and organizations that adopt these platforms. This paper identifies, through a review of relevant literature, the most common inhibitors associated with low-code/no-code software development. These inhibitors are then further examined through a case study methodology, evaluating their significance from the perspective of end users. The findings of this study may prove valuable to vendors, the organizations and end users who rely on these technologies.