The Impact of Low-Code Applications on Business Automation

Many businesses would like to automate more of their processes in order to increase operational efficiency, but developing new applications the traditional way, with a common web framework, has too often become more burden than benefit. Traditional process development typically entails higher costs and a longer duration, and usually requires a greater amount of IT personnel resources. One alternative to the predicament is low-code development a set of tools that can assist in creating applications visually using a drag-and-drop interface. The approach is remarkably simple when compared to creating thousands of lines of complex code and syntax.

A common operational efficiency that can be achieved through low-code are workflows that communicate information across different platforms. Jason Morris, founder of Round Table Law, structured his firm’s software and datasets to increase back-office efficiency and passes the cost savings on to his clients. Using readily available applications, he’s able to track case progress and billing information more efficiently by creating a low-code application workflow that begins with creating a new client file with his case management software. Each time a new client matter is created, a label is automatically added to Mr. Morris’ Gmail account that tracks specific emails related to the client’s case.

Simultaneously, a new project under the client matter is created in his billing software to track hours and a client-specific to-do list is created in another app for any reminders. Lastly, a summary of the progress of the case is sent to a Google spreadsheet. So what was once was a tedious, time-consuming manual process is now automated with a few clicks of the mouse. Altogether, this workflow created by low-code enables Mr. Morris to save time with his administrative tasks and lets him spend more time working directly on clients’ cases.

Advancements in technology have also transformed customer service, where using low code is a great way for companies to automate their support services. Implementing an automated support system provides customers with quicker and more accurate responses while reducing the costs associated with hiring, training and retaining employees for these roles. One example of low-code automation for support services are chatbots, which are especially helpful in reducing response time since they operate 24/7, a benefit for customers wishing to make inquiries from another time zone. Since these automated responses can be altered almost instantaneously, chatbots also contribute to a greater sales conversion rate.

In creating low-code applications, there are a number of platforms that enable users to self-develop their own workflow configurations to meet specific needs for improving processes. Jason Wong, senior director at Gartner, projects that low-code will account for more than 65% of application development activity by 2024.

Given the readily available tools and the simplistic approach to low-code development, how will you and your company adapt to the transformation of automating day-to-day tasks? Schneider Downs could be the answer. Contact our ADAPT group to get in touch with experts who can work with your data and transform your decision-making and analytics processes.