Whiringa Ltd

In today’s fast-paced business world, startups face immense pressure to innovate quickly and stay ahead of the competition. However, traditional software development can be time-consuming, expensive, and often requires specialised technical expertise. You might be surprised to learn that you’ve likely used low-code/no-code (LCNC) tools without even realising it, such as when you designed a website with Squarespace or created an online survey with Google Forms. These platforms streamline complex processes, enabling you to build and customise digital solutions with minimal coding knowledge. This is where low-code/no-code (LCNC) platforms come into play, offering a game-changing solution for New Zealand entrepreneurs.

LCNC platforms are visual development tools that enable users to build applications with minimal or no coding required. These platforms use drag-and-drop interfaces, pre-built components, and intuitive workflows, making it easier for non-technical users to create and customise software solutions.

Advantages for Startups

LCNC platforms offer numerous benefits that can propel Aotearoa startups to new heights:

1. Accelerated Time-to-Market: With LCNC platforms, startups can quickly develop and deploy applications, allowing them to seize market opportunities faster than their competitors. This speed can be a crucial advantage in the dynamic startup ecosystem.
2. Cost Savings: Traditional software development can be costly, often requiring significant investments in hiring and retaining skilled developers. LCNC platforms reduce these costs by enabling non-technical team members to build applications, minimising the need for extensive coding expertise.
3. Increased Adaptability: Startups often need to pivot and adapt their strategies based on market demands or customer feedback. LCNC platforms facilitate rapid iterations and modifications, enabling startups to respond swiftly to changing requirements.
4. Scalability: As startups grow, their software needs may evolve. LCNC platforms offer scalable solutions that can accommodate expanding business requirements without the need for extensive recoding or costly overhauls.

Real-World Examples

Several Aotearoa startups have already embraced LCNC platforms and reaped the benefits:

• Kami: This Auckland-based EdTech startup used a LCNC platform to develop its digital classroom solution rapidly. Users have praised Kami for its ease of use and ability to iterate quickly based on user feedback.
• Whip Around: Starting from modest beginnings in 2016, Whip Around quickly soared to success, earning multiple accolades at the NZ Hi-Tech Awards and raising over $21 million in series B capital. Whip Around allows users to leverage LCNC tools to create a job management application for the construction industry. Whip Around’s visual interface allowed the non-technical team to build and customise the app without extensive coding knowledge.
• Parkable: One of NZ Hearld’s Five Kiwi tech startups to watch in 2020, Parkable is the ultimate parking management solution. The platform’s drag-and-drop features enabled them to rapidly prototype and test their app, leading to faster market entry and increased customer satisfaction.

Use Cases

LCNC platforms can be applied to various aspects of a startup’s operations, including:

1. Process Automation: Streamline repetitive tasks, such as data entry, customer onboarding, or invoice processing, by building custom workflows and automating manual processes.
2. Data Management: Create custom databases, dashboards, and reporting tools to better organise and analyse your startup’s data, enabling data-driven decision-making.
3. Customer Engagement: Develop user-friendly web and mobile applications to enhance customer interactions, from self-service portals to loyalty programs and feedback systems.
4. Internal Tools: Build internal tools tailored to your startup’s specific needs, such as project management platforms, employee onboarding systems, or knowledge bases.

Choosing a Platform

With numerous LCNC platforms available, selecting the right one for your startup can be challenging. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Ease of Use: Evaluate the platform’s user interface and learning curve. Prioritise platforms with intuitive drag-and-drop builders and comprehensive documentation.
2. Feature Set: Assess the platform’s capabilities and ensure it aligns with your startup’s current and future requirements, such as mobile app development, integration with third-party services, or advanced reporting features.
3. Scalability: Consider the platform’s ability to scale as your startup grows, including capacity limits, pricing models, and potential vendor lock-in.
4. Community and Support: Explore the platform’s community resources, such as forums, tutorials, and customer support, to ensure you have access to guidance and best practices.
5. Security and Compliance: Evaluate the platform’s security measures, data protection policies, and compliance with relevant industry regulations.

Future Outlook

The adoption of LCNC platforms is poised to accelerate in the New Zealand tech landscape. As more startups recognise the benefits of rapid application development, LCNC platforms will become increasingly mainstream. Additionally, advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning are expected to further enhance the capabilities of these platforms, enabling even more sophisticated application development with minimal coding.

Low-code/no-code platforms offer a transformative opportunity for Aotearoa startups to streamline their technology development processes. By leveraging these user-friendly tools, non-technical founders and teams can create powerful applications, automate processes, and rapidly adapt to changing market conditions. Embrace the power of LCNC platforms and other ngā hangarau porohuri (disruptive technologies), and unlock your startup’s full potential for growth and innovation.