Why we Decided to Build a Low Code/No Code Platform

As we trace back the origins of the Vahana platform, one thing is clear – we didn’t start with a big bang agenda to create a full-stack RAD platform. 

We started with small, incremental steps:

1. Creating business object-based database structures that could be reused and retooled across product lines.

2. Developing base mobile application templates for B2B solutions.

3. Recognizing that core functionalities and feature sets that enterprises need don’t deviate significantly across channels and functions.

As we started developing solutions to address more complicated problems and scenarios, we realized the complexity of the toolkit to develop the solutions also had to change. Data management was becoming increasingly complicated and maintenance of masters was critical. This led us to develop a Master Data Management platform that could make the maintenance lifecycle and operations simpler and easier for end-users.

Solving Unique Challenges in Platform Development

One of the unique problems we face in India is that of low-network operations, essentially running a data-intensive operation in areas where internet connectivity and network strength isn’t up to par for data to be synced in real-time.

This led to the creation of a sync engine that enables online and offline operations – in essence storing a local copy of the data on device in an encrypted format while the sync engine manages the server interaction to check due network strength and allowing data to be uploaded to the central server only when the network is appropriate. The creation of the sync engine allowed the operations on the mobility platform to continue unimpeded resulting in increased efficiency and ROI of the user’s time.

Also Read: How No-code overcomes 5 coding challenges in software development

Key Lessons from Building a Low Code/No Code Platform

Sometime in 2017, we decided to take a long, hard look at what we had built so far and how to leverage that to build a truly world-class platform. We spent months studying and researching leading RAD platforms in the market to understand what was on offer and what were the gaps that weren’t getting addressed through the existing offerings.

Here were our 3 key takeaways from our research –

1. Fragmented Front-End and Back-End Solutions
Platforms focused individually on either front-end development or service layer integration with minimal overlap in functionalities. There was no single platform that comprehensively merged both areas into one unified service offering.

2. API-First Architecture is Non-Negotiable
APIs were emerging as the future of communication and interaction. Any platform we built would need to be API-first while also allowing provisions for legacy systems to be upgraded and expose services as needed.

3. Lack of Industry-Specific Solutions
There was no BFSI-focused or industry-specific platform in the market. Most RAD platforms are industry-agnostic and generic by nature. However, given the agility and speed required in financial services, we saw a clear need for a focused offering addressing this industry’s unique requirements.

How to Build a Low Code No Code Platform: Our Strategic Approach

Understanding the above helped shape our strategy for Vahana. With Vahana, we set out to solve the problems mentioned above –

1. Unified Front-End and Middleware Development

We created a platform that handles both front-end application development and an integrated middleware layer for service interaction. This unified approach eliminated the need for multiple tools and reduced development complexity.

2. Simple, GUI-Enabled API Management

We built vConnect – a simple, GUI-enabled API management module that addresses API creation, integration, and operations challenges. Service layer functionalities such as:

A) Data encryption and security

B) Service orchestration (serial and parallel processing)

C) API lifecycle management

All these capabilities are enabled through vConnect’s intuitive interface.

3. Industry-Specific Functionality (BFSI Focus)

We invested heavily in ensuring Vahana addresses the unique needs of the Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI) segment. This focus is built into the platform’s DNA:

Front-End Components:

A) PAN and Aadhaar-based biometric authentication modules

B) Drag-and-drop modeler for rapid UI development

C) BFSI-compliant form builders and workflows

VahanaHub API Marketplace:1500+ pre-integrated API services, GST integration, Financial statement analyzer, VideoKYC capabilities, Credit bureau integration, and more.

Vahana is BFSI-ready from the moment of deployment.

Building a Low Code Platform: Technical Architecture Decisions

While the above broadly covers the major strategic areas we addressed, it doesn’t even begin to cover the complete gamut of services and functions available on the platform. What it does provide is a general sense of the scope and direction – and as we continue to evolve and build, the platform only gets better.

Future-Ready Technology Stack

When you build a low code no code platform for the long term, you cannot commit to a single technology stack. Our platform is ever-evolving:

A) Started with Angular-based framework

B) Experimented with React Native, Flutter, and Kotlin

C) Eventually rolled out our latest product builds on Flutter

D) Maintained flexibility to adopt emerging technologies

Cloud-First with On-Premise Flexibility

We made an early decision to enable Vahana as a cloud-first solution. However, the platform retains the flexibility to be deployed on-premises for enterprise-specific requirements. This hybrid approach ensures we can serve diverse client needs.

Security and Compliance

The platform is ISO/IEC 27001:2013 certified, adhering to the highest industry standards for information security – which is absolutely critical for banking and financial services applications.

Benefits of Building a Custom Low Code No Code Platform

For enterprises, a no code/low-code platform provides several strategic advantages:

Control Over the Entire Development Lifecycle
Exercise complete control over application development and management without being bound by technological or service limitations.

Reduced Development Effort
Development time is reduced significantly compared to traditional coding approaches.

Enhanced Reusability
Enterprise-specific modules and components become extremely easy to reuse, increasing overall ROI.

Faster Time-to-Market
Deploy applications and updates rapidly, responding quickly to changing business needs.

Lower Total Cost of Ownership
Reduce dependency on large development teams and expensive custom coding projects.

What the Future Holds for Low Code No Code Platform Development

As we continue to grow and evolve, our resolve to address business problems grows stronger. At the end of the day, technology is but a means to solve problems – not the solution in itself.

Our journey to build a low code no code platform has taught us that success lies in:

a)Understanding real business problems deeply

b) Building flexible, future-ready architecture

c) Focusing on specific industry needs

d) Continuously evolving with technology trends

e) Maintaining security and compliance standards

With Vahana, we hope to make it easier for developers and enterprises alike to be part of the next stage of digital and technology innovation. Whether you’re looking to build internal applications, customer-facing solutions, or enterprise-wide systems, low code no code platforms represent the future of agile software development.

Ready to explore how Vahana can transform your enterprise application development?
For more information, visit us at https://decimaltech.com/vahana-cloud-platform/

FAQs About Building a Low Code No Code Platform

 

Q: How long does it take to build a low code no code platform?
A: Based on our experience with Vahana, building a comprehensive platform takes 3-5 years of iterative development, starting with core components and gradually expanding functionality.

Q: What are the key components needed in a low code platform?
A: Essential components include a visual development interface, API management system, database abstraction layer, authentication and security modules, and deployment automation.

Q: Is building a custom platform better than using existing solutions?
A: It depends on your specific needs. Building a custom platform offers complete control and industry-specific optimization, while using existing platforms provides faster initial deployment. For BFSI enterprises with unique requirements, a custom-built solution often delivers better long-term ROI.