The rise of low-code and no-code platforms is revolutionizing the way businesses approach software development. These platforms empower users with little to no programming experience to create applications, automate processes, and drive digital transformation.
As we move into 2025, understanding the statistics and trends surrounding these platforms is crucial for businesses looking to leverage technology effectively. This article explores the growth of low-code and no-code platforms, their impact on the industry, and key statistics that highlight their significance.
Table of Contents
Understanding Low-Code and No-Code Platforms
Low-code and no-code platforms are development environments that allow users to create applications through graphical user interfaces instead of traditional hand-coded programming.
- Low-Code Platforms: These require some coding knowledge but significantly reduce the amount of code needed. They often provide drag-and-drop features that streamline the development process.
- No-Code Platforms: These are designed for users with no coding experience, allowing them to build applications using visual tools without writing any code.
Both types of platforms aim to accelerate application development, reduce costs, and democratize access to technology across organizations.
Market Growth Statistics
The market for low-code and no-code platforms is expanding rapidly, driven by the increasing demand for faster application delivery and digital transformation.
- The global low-code development platform market was valued at $9.61 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow from $11.86 billion in 2024 to $64.95 billion by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 23.7% during this period Source.
- According to another report, the low-code/no-code market is expected to reach $86.9 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 22.7% from now until then Source.
- Gartner predicts that the market for no-code/low-code development platforms will increase from $3.8 billion in 2017 to approximately $31.9 billion in 2024 3.
These statistics indicate a robust growth trajectory for these platforms, reflecting their increasing adoption across various sectors.
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Drivers of Adoption
Several factors are contributing to the rapid adoption of low-code and no-code platforms:
- Digital Transformation Initiatives: Organizations are increasingly focused on digital transformation as a means to remain competitive. Low-code/no-code platforms facilitate this transition by enabling faster application development.
- Shortage of Skilled Developers: The demand for skilled software developers often exceeds supply, leading organizations to seek alternative solutions. Low-code/no-code platforms allow non-technical users or “citizen developers” to contribute to application development Source.
- Cost Efficiency: Developing applications using traditional methods can be costly and time-consuming. Low-code/no-code solutions can reduce development costs by up to 70%, with setup times as quick as three days Source.
- Empowerment of Business Users: By enabling business units outside of IT departments to create applications, organizations can respond more rapidly to changing market demands Source.
Trends Shaping the Future
As we look ahead, several trends are emerging in the low-code/no-code landscape:
1. Rise of Citizen Developers
Citizen developers—non-technical users who create applications using low-code/no-code tools—are becoming increasingly prevalent in organizations. By 2024, it is estimated that citizen developers will outnumber professional developers by a ratio of 4:1 Source. This shift allows organizations to tap into a broader talent pool while accelerating application delivery.
2. Integration with Other Technologies
Low-code/no-code platforms are increasingly integrating with other technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and Internet of Things (IoT) solutions. This integration enhances functionality and enables businesses to build more sophisticated applications without extensive coding knowledge Source.
3. Focus on Security and Governance
As more organizations adopt these platforms, there is a growing emphasis on security and governance measures. Companies are prioritizing tools that provide robust security features while ensuring compliance with regulations Source. Improved governance frameworks will help mitigate risks associated with citizen development.
4. Industry-Specific Solutions
The demand for specialized low-code/no-code solutions tailored for specific industries is on the rise. For instance, healthcare-focused platforms may include features such as electronic medical record integration or compliance tools Source. This trend allows businesses in niche markets to develop customized solutions quickly.
Key Statistics Highlighting Impact
Understanding key statistics can provide valuable insights into the current state and future potential of low-code/no-code platforms:
- By 2024, it is expected that 70% of new business applications will use low-code/no-code technologies, up from less than 25% in 2020 Source.
- Over 60% of all custom apps will be built outside of IT departments by 2024 Source.
- An estimated 500 million apps will be created using no-code tools by 2024, reflecting an unprecedented demand for new applications Source.
- Approximately 65% of enterprises are turning to no-code solutions as a key component of their digital transformation strategies Source.
These statistics underscore the transformative impact that low-code/no-code platforms are having on how organizations develop software.
Challenges and Considerations
While low-code and no-code platforms offer numerous benefits, they also present challenges that organizations must address:
- Limited Customization Options: Although these platforms provide significant flexibility, they may not offer the same level of customization as fully coded applications. Businesses must evaluate whether their specific needs can be met within the constraints of these tools.
- Quality Control Issues: With citizen developers creating applications, there may be concerns about quality control and adherence to best practices in software development Source. Organizations should implement governance frameworks to ensure consistency.
- Dependency on Platform Vendors: Organizations may become reliant on third-party vendors for updates, support, and maintenance of their applications built on low-code/no-code platforms Source. This dependency can pose risks if vendors do not deliver timely updates or support.
Key Summary
The rise of low-code and no-code platforms represents a significant shift in how businesses approach software development. With rapid growth projected over the coming years, these platforms are democratizing access to technology and empowering non-technical users to contribute meaningfully to application development.
As organizations continue their digital transformation journeys, embracing low-code/no-code solutions can lead to faster time-to-market, reduced costs, and enhanced agility in responding to market demands. However, businesses must also navigate challenges related to customization, quality control, and vendor dependency.
In summary, staying informed about statistics and trends in the low-code/no-code landscape will be essential for organizations looking to leverage these powerful tools effectively in an increasingly competitive environment. By doing so, they can position themselves for success in a rapidly evolving digital landscape
FAQs on Low-Code and No-Code Platforms
What are the key drivers behind the rapid growth of low-code and no-code platforms?
The rapid growth of low-code and no-code platforms is driven by the demand for faster software development, cost reductions, a shortage of skilled developers, and the need for businesses to quickly adapt to changing market conditions. These platforms empower non-technical users to create applications, speeding up innovation and reducing reliance on traditional coding.
How do low-code and no-code platforms impact the traditional IT workforce?
Low-code and no-code platforms reduce the workload for traditional IT teams by enabling business users to develop applications independently, freeing up IT professionals to focus on complex tasks and strategic projects. While this may shift roles and skill sets, it also allows IT departments to better align with business needs and foster collaboration.
What industries are seeing the most significant adoption of low-code and no-code solutions?
Industries such as finance, healthcare, retail, and manufacturing are rapidly adopting low-code and no-code solutions due to their need for quick, customized digital tools. These platforms enable businesses to automate workflows, improve customer experiences, and streamline operations, making them particularly appealing in sectors undergoing digital transformation.
How do low-code and no-code platforms enhance digital transformation initiatives?
Low-code and no-code platforms accelerate digital transformation by enabling faster deployment of applications, improving agility, and allowing non-developers to innovate directly. This democratization of app development drives efficiency, reduces the time to market, and empowers organizations to adapt swiftly to new opportunities and challenges.
What are the main challenges businesses face when implementing low-code and no-code solutions?
Challenges include potential security and compliance risks, limited customization compared to traditional coding, integration complexities with existing systems, and the risk of “shadow IT” where business users create applications without adequate oversight. Proper governance and training are essential to address these issues effectively.
