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Editor's note

Low-code opens up opportunities to build software quickly -- inside and outside of IT. The tech is here; now it's a matter of what low-code tools and practices organizations should adopt.

Low-code app development platforms provide a range of models, templates and functions for nontechnical users, dubbed citizen developers. Additionally, low-code, sometimes called no-code, tools save professional developers from tedious programming tasks, enabling them to prioritize feature creation.

Use of low-code app development platforms is on the rise. With this guide, dive into low-code product insights, best practices for its implementation and advice from development industry experts. 

1Strategize for low-code use

Low-code tools have many interesting features, but they don't apply to all workloads and uses. Low-code app development platforms are a potent means to tackle low-priority, low-risk, low-complexity software initiatives. Low-code tools can ease the burden of these prospective dev projects and open up avenues for nontechnical professionals to create the functionality their organization needs. Experts delineate how enterprises can work with low-code app development platforms, such as to tackle software sprawl and build for mobile.

2Address low-code challenges

Users of low-code app development platforms need to rethink some of their assumptions about development, and also define usage policies. When nontechnical team members are involved, it pays to evaluate their skills and experience -- and train them where necessary -- before handing them a new tool. Follow the advice laid out in these articles from independent consultants and experts to better position your team to reap the benefits of low-code app development platforms.

3Pick a low-code tool

When it's time to choose a low-code app development platform, you'll find that they come in a variety of types, including cloud-native and open source. Before you commit to a tool, confirm that it supports your team's workflow and can abstract away enough programming responsibilities to prove beneficial for its intended users. Examine the different types of low-code tools to gauge how well they will work for your organization's needs.