Low-code

What is Low-code?

A low-code platform is a software tool that enables application development primarily through visual configuration — drag-and-drop forms, workflow editors, data models — with minimal hand-written code. The philosophy: 80% of typical business applications (CRMs, registers, approval processes, dashboards) do not require custom code and can be built from ready-made building blocks.

Distinctions:

• No-code — completely without code, suitable for business users (citizen developers). Examples: Airtable, Notion databases.
• Low-code — predominantly visual, but with the ability to insert scripts or JavaScript for specific scenarios. Examples: OutSystems, Mendix, Microsoft Power Platform, Retool, Modulario.
• Pro-code — traditional programming.

Typical components of a low-code platform:

• Data model builder — tables, relationships, validations
• Form builder — input forms with conditions
• Workflow engine — process automation
• Integration layer — connection to external APIs
• Deployment & security — deployment and permissions

When it is used

Low-code is ideal for:

• Rapid MVPs and prototypes for internal tools
• Separating IT from business — business teams build their own applications
• Customising standard ERP/CRM without developers
• Digitalising paper-based processes (leave requests, expense claims)

Limitations of low-code: highly complex domains (high-complexity industrial manufacturing, HFT trading), extreme performance requirements or highly custom UX.

See the API page and the Workflows module.

Related terms

• SaaS — low-code platforms are typically SaaS. See /en/glossary/saas.
• Workflow automation — the core of low-code platforms. See /en/glossary/workflow-automation.
• API — low-code calls external APIs via connectors. See /en/glossary/api.
• AI Agent — trend: AI agents collaborating with low-code. See /en/glossary/ai-agent.

In Modulario

Modulario is a low-code ERP/CRM platform — standard modules (Invoicing, CRM, Warehouse) are customised by customers through configuration: custom fields, forms, workflows, roles. Complex scenarios can be extended with JavaScript scripts or by connecting via API.

Modulario’s extension layer allows business users to add new fields, create custom forms, or program validations without deploying a new version of the system — changes are applied immediately and have an auditable history. The IT department controls quality through an approval workflow before changes are deployed to production.